2030’s potential end of leisure swimming

As it turns out pools that were built in the 1960s and 70s have not been refurbished at a sufficient rate this unfortunately could come to mean that quality facilities could drop by 40% which for swimmers could limit them and their access whether they are competitive or recreational swimmers it seems we are all in the same boat.

Potentially without an investment of £1bn there will most likely be a decline in availability of pools. Swim England published the report that predicts that the number of pools will have dropped from 4,336 to around 2,468. Gerald Vernon-Jackson, who’s the chairman of the local government associations culture, tourism and sport board had explained that,

“sixty per cent of swimming pools are past their expected lifespans or overdue refurbishment”

he also sadly explained that they,

“account for up to 20 per cent of some councils direct carbon emissions”.

It's estimated that 23% of local authorities have a shortage of at least one swimming pool but, that figure could increase to 73% before the end of the decade.

The department of digital, culture, media and sport spokesperson had commented saying

“we have been clear that the nation’s health and fitness is a priority as we build back better from the pandemic”.

They have said that they

“provided an unprecedented £1bn to ensure the survival of grassroots, professional sport and leisure sectors.”

They go on to comment that it also includes their “£100m National leisure centre recovery fund which has secured the survival and reopening of more than 1,100 swimming pools across the country”.

Leisure swimming is one of the most enjoyed activities for families young teens and the elderly alike it’s something that brings joy to people and we can only hope that this can be prevented and our swimming pools can stay for more summer fun.