Labour brings back free swimming for under-16s

Steve Reed MP has backed Croydon’s new Labour council’s plans to re-introduced free swimming for under-16s this summer.  The former Tory council scrapped the scheme in March, claiming it was unaffordable after spending £140million to build a new glass-and-steel headquarters for themselves.

Free swimming will start from 21 July, and run until 31 August, meaning that young people from Croydon North will be able to enjoy themselves at South Norwood and Thornton Heath pools at no cost.  Participants must be Croydon residents and if they have not previously used the scheme they will have to complete a registration form signed by a parent or guardian, as well as paying a one-off sign-up fee of £2.

Commenting on the announcement, Steve Reed MP:

“I know how disappointed many parents were when the Tories cut free swimming for young people.  There’s a desperate shortage of positive, healthy activities for young people over the summer so I’m delighted Labour has brought back this popular scheme.

I know how tight funds are at the council at the moment, so it is really commendable that Labour have prioritised spending on the community rather than on flashy new council buildings like the Tories did.”