12:08pm Tuesday 9th February 2010
Attendances at Chorley’s two swimming pools have risen by more than 50 per cent since a free entrance programme was introduced last year.
The spectacular increase means an there have been an additional 30,251 visits to the All Seasons Leisure Centre and Brinscall Baths in just six months.
Chorley’s free swim scheme began on April 1, 2009, and runs for two years.
Free swimming is available for 16s and under and over 60s during public sessions.
The estimated cost of the project is £232,000 over two years, funded by the Government, Central Lancashire PCT and Active Nation.
Figures for the first six months of the scheme show there were 90,518 attendances at the pools, up from 60,267 for the same period in 2008.
Free swimmers accounted for more than half of these, however, the number of paying customers also increased by 1,412, up four per cent.
Juniors account for 69 per cent of the free swims.
Councillor John Walker, Chorley Council’s Executive Member (People) said: “We are delighted so many people have taken up the chance of free swimming at our pools, I can’t emphasise enough the health benefits that swimming provides.
“And we hope to see even more people take advantage of the free swim sessions because, as it is a two-year project, we are totally committed to it for the forthcoming year 2010/11.
“It is a prime example of partnership working for the benefit of our residents.”
Mother of two, Nicola Harrison, 33, of Preston Road, Whittle-le-Woods, said that the scheme had encouraged her to take her sons swimming.
She added: “It’s definitely made a difference because now going to All Seasons is a cheap activity and healthy and enjoyable for the children.
“You can definitely see how much busier the pool is and it can get very crowded, especially at weekends and school holidays.”
A council spokesman said they would consider extending the programme beyond March 2011 when they get more information about possible grant support.
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