Government Funding Secured for Swimming Pools

Dacorum Borough Council has been awarded a total of £122,231 from the first phase of central Government’s £20 million Swimming Pool Support Fund. The money awarded will cover part of its energy costs towards Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted swimming pools, which is run by Everyone Active on behalf of Dacorum Borough Council.

Individually, each leisure centre has been awarded:

• Hemel Hempstead Leisure Centre – £74,765
• Berkhamsted Leisure Centre – £47,466

With recent rises in energy costs, the funding will help towards immediate maintenance costs, heating and its pool chemicals. This support in the long term will ensure Dacorum residents are further supported for their physical and mental wellbeing.

Portfolio holder for place Cllr Sheron Wilkie said: ‘We are delighted that our application for funding was successful. In accordance with the funding terms, this will go towards essential utility costs at both leisure facilities in Berkhamsted and Hemel Hempstead. Swimming pools are vital community spaces, from teaching our children to swim, to providing a safe space for people of all ages to exercise regularly.’

Sports Minister Stuart Andrew said: ‘Leisure centres and pools are vital for millions of people to stay fit and healthy, and we know that many public swimming pools are experiencing greater pressure due to increased operating costs.

‘We have heard their concerns and have stepped in to help them make ends meet with £20 million immediate relief, and a further £40 million to help improve sustainability of public swimming pools over the long term.

‘This is part of our support for grassroots sports facilities with more than £400 million in order to achieve our ambitious target of getting 3.5 million more people active by 2030.’