A number of council pools in the Peak District region are investigating the possibility of offering free swimming for young people. Derbyshire
Dales District Council has pledged free swimming for residents aged 60
and over for a two-year trial and is thinking of extending the scheme
to people aged 16 or under. Andrew
Lewer, chairman of the community and environment committee said "It
is a priority for the council to increase participation in sport and
physical activity by young people and adults. We expect attendances
will increase at all our swimming pools as a result of this initiative,
creating additional costs, but we are enthusiastic about the benefits." Income from people aged 16 or under at Dales pools in the past year is estimated at £35,000-£40,000.
A
final decision on whether to make free swimming available to this age
range will be made after the Government makes a compensation offer.
 The level of compensation from a £25m
national pot will depend on the number of local authorities, including
Derbyshire Dales, which express an interest in free swimming for
children.
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