Over 60s and under 16s across South Yorkshire are set to have access to free swimming from April next year… except in Sheffield.

The Government announced in June that £140 million was being made available to fund the free swimming initiative, in partnership with local councils. And councils were asked to confirm by 15 September whether or not they wished to take up this offer.

And there’s fantastic news for young people and older people across the country…

300 out of 354 local authorities (including Doncaster, Rotherham and Barnsley) have confirmed that they will be offering free swimming to over 60s from April 2009, and;

296 local authorities (including Doncaster, Rotherham and Barnsley) have expressed their interest in claiming their share of the £50 million fund for under 16s, also to be invested from April 2009.

However, Labour in Sheffield were very disappointed to learn that the new Lib Dem Council has decided not to take part in the scheme, and will not be providing the free swimming.

Councillor Jan Wilson, Leader of the Labour Group said:

“I think people will be furious to learn that the Lib Dems have turned down the offer of funding from the Government to provide free swimming for young people and over 60s.

“Nearly 85% of councils in England will be opening up their pools for free to over 60s and under 16s in just 6 months time, and Sheffielders will be missing out. It’s absolutely outrageous.

“Barnsley, Rotherham and Doncaster have all signed up for the free swimming, so over 60s and under 16s in Sheffield will be the only ones in South Yorkshire who will not be able to access free swimming – all because of the Lib Dems.

“The Lib Dems are trying to hide behind the excuse that the Government funding isn’t enough but if that’s the case, how come 85% of other councils have been able to make the figures stack up? I’m so disappointed by this decision and I think Sheffielders will be too. The Lib Dems have got a lot to answer for.”