UK govt announces £60m boost to over 300 English swimming pools for energy efficiency
In a significant move towards bolstering public health and environmental sustainability, over 325 swimming pools and leisure centers across England are set to receive a share of £60.5 million. This funding, provided by the Government and Sport England, aims to ensure the long-term financial viability of these facilities by enhancing their energy efficiency and thus, reducing operating costs. This initiative not only builds upon the £20 million allocated to almost 200 swimming pools in Phase I of the Swimming Pool Support Fund but also marks a total investment of £80 million in the sector.
This considerable investment is designed to secure the future for millions of facility visitors, contributing to the government’s ambitious target of activating 3.5 million more people by 2030. The funds will facilitate a range of energy-saving measures, including the installation of new heating systems, solar panels, improved insulation, and other significant energy-efficient upgrades.
Swimming, celebrated for its comprehensive health benefits, ranging from physical fitness to mental well-being, remains a preferred activity for millions across the nation. The 2022 Value of Swimming report by Swim England highlighted these advantages, underscoring the critical role that swimming pools play in the community’s health. Through this investment, the government aims to protect over 58 million annual visits to these facilities, thereby bolstering the nation’s health.
The spike in energy costs in recent years has placed a considerable strain on the financial sustainability of these community assets. Recognizing their importance across all age groups, the government has stepped in to ensure that these vital community resources remain accessible.
The latest funding round emphasizes long-term energy and financial resilience in the sector, with a remarkable 96% of applicants successfully securing support. This means that a total of 442 swimming pools in 367 local authorities will have benefited from the combined £80 million funding, highlighting the government’s commitment to sustaining public health infrastructure.
Sports Minister Stuart Andrew emphasized the role of this support in achieving broader physical activity goals, stating, “We are sticking to our plan to get millions more people active by 2030… This further £60 million of support…will ensure hundreds of swimming pools can lower their operating costs in the long run…”
Examples of funded projects illustrate the scope and impact of this initiative, ranging from the refurbishment of facilities to the installation of cutting-edge energy-saving technologies. These interventions are expected to significantly reduce energy consumption, ensuring the facilities’ sustainability and their continued contribution to community health and wellness.
The support for swimming pools is part of a broader government strategy to enhance grassroots sports facilities, including a record investment of almost £400 million. This strategy aligns with the newly published sport strategy aiming to increase physical activity levels significantly by 2030. The sustained investment in swimming pools and leisure centers, including the £100 million National Leisure Centre Recovery Fund, underscores the government’s commitment to a healthier, more active nation.