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Sport England said the money would help pools that have struggled due to rising costs
Barnsley’s Metrodome has secured £400,000 in funding to help cover the rising costs of running its swimming pools.
This amount is believed to be the largest single grant awarded by Sport England’s Swimming Pool Support Fund.
The council had submitted a bid for the fund alongside Metrodome operator Barnsley Premier Leisure.
It said the grant would secure the future of the Metrodome’s pools, which are a “critical asset to the community.”
James Higginbotton, the council’s environment and highways spokesman, said it was “fantastic” to get the money.
“Swimming pools are an important community asset that help increase participation rates in physical activity and improve physical and mental health and well-being.”
“It’s important that they remain open and affordable.”
“Long-term profitability”
Sport England’s Lisa Dodd-Mayne said swimming pools were vital to the country’s activity levels.
“Many swimming pools have faced a real and significant threat to their survival this year as local authorities and operators grapple with the challenge of rising energy and maintenance costs, weakened reserves and difficulties retaining staff.”
Ms Dodd-Mayne added that they continue to “work with our partners to ensure the long-term viability of these vital community resources”.
The £63m Swimming Pool Support Fund was announced in the Government’s Spring Budget.
The first phase funding was earmarked for swimming pools and leisure centers that are at greatest risk of closure or significant reduction in services.
The money was intended to address the impact of rising energy costs on these operational pools.
A second phase of funding will support energy efficiency improvements to help swimming pools become more sustainable.
The council has also made a bid for this funding but has not yet heard whether it has been successful, they said.
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