Public leisure centres and swimming pools could close after missing out on additional support towards energy costs, the LGA has warned.
A new Energy Bills Discount Scheme was announced by the Government in January, providing extra support for industries deemed ‘energy intensive’, including libraries, museums and archives.
However, swimming pools and leisure centres were not included, adding to existing pressures and the risk of closures and service reductions.
Public leisure centres and swimming pools are eligible for the basic energy support that all businesses will receive, which is much reduced from the current level of support.
Cllr David Renard, the LGA’s Energy Spokesperson, said: “While it is good the Government will continue to help the public sector and businesses keep their energy bills lower, we remain deeply concerned about the risk to some council services.
“Libraries and museums will be eligible for extra support, but leisure centres and swimming pools will not be equally protected from high energy prices.
“These valuable public facilities are at risk of reduced hours or even closure because of unsustainable and increasing costs.
“If the Government is serious about reducing pressure on the NHS, as well as meeting its other targets on physical activity and sports participation, it must continue to support our leisure centres and public swimming pools, which help people stay active, healthy and out of hospital.
“Councils need support with their energy bills for all their local services, so they can stay open and provide a safe haven for residents during this unprecedented cost-of-living crisis.”
