Published on:
06
October 2022
Clackmannanshire Council has agreed to halt the development of an interim swimming pool on the grounds of ensuring best value for Council resources, particularly in light of the ongoing cost of living crisis.
A report to today’s Council meeting set out how projected costs for building and running the pool have escalated significantly in the last six months.
This is due to a combination of factors beyond the Council's control such as risks to supply chain, volatile labour markets and the unprecedented increase in gas and electricity prices.
Councillor Scott Harrison, spokesperson for Sports, Leisure and Active Living, said: “This was a really difficult, but necessary decision. Costs have risen significantly beyond those previously projected and agreed by Council meaning this project no longer represents best value for the taxpayers of Clackmannanshire.
“Interim swimming opportunities remain a priority and I was pleased to hear the update on the Learn to Swim programme and the interim arrangements that have been put in place. We are determined to ensure that all children and young people have the opportunity to learn to swim before they leave school.”
The meeting heard that the Council is currently providing a Learn to Swim programme at Dollar Academy’s pool with over 70 children attending weekly. Water confidence sessions at Alloa Academy’s hydro pool are also being delivered with over 50 children and young people with additional support needs involved in the programme.
The meeting also heard that planning is underway to re-introduce a Primary 5 Learn to Swim programme which will equip Clackmannanshire’s school children with this vital life saving skill.
Discussions continue with Scottish Swimming, other partners and local swimming clubs to help them meet the needs of their members.
Progress on the state of the art Wellbeing Hub including a new swimming pool for Clackmannanshire continues at pace.