Second phase of Swimming Pool Support Fund applications open

A £40m fund to help local authorities improve the energy efficiency of swimming pools has opened for applications.

It is the second phase of the Government’s Swimming Pool Support Fund, which has seen a total of £60m being made available to help public swimming pools cope with increased running costs as well as make them greener.

Phase one of the fund is now closed with decisions on where the money will be allocated due to be announced by the end of September.

Now, local authorities looking to carry out work to reduce the energy consumption of facilities and cut the carbon output of pools can apply for a share of the next wave of cash, which is being managed by Sport England.

It is expected that councils meeting the eligibility criteria will receive between £20,000 and £1m.

The window is now open for authorities to register interest and begin the process.

Completed application forms will be able to be submitted via an online portal from Tuesday 3 October, with the window closing at noon on Tuesday 17 October.

Phil Brownlie, Swim England head of public affairs, said: “We know swimming pools require a lot of energy to keep them running so this fund to help councils make facilities more energy efficient is most welcome.

“It could be the difference between a pool closing and remaining open and we hope as many local authorities as possible are able to benefit from this pot of cash.

‘Targeted at places with the greatest need’

“While it’s pleasing to see there is this financial support for pools up and down the country, long-term investment is required to ensure people have access to these important facilities now and in the future.

“They play a key role in keeping the nation physically and mentally healthy and are a vital asset to help the Government achieve its vision of getting more people active.”

Lisa Dodd-Mayne, Sport England’s executive director for place, said: “Swimming pools play a vital role in the health and wellbeing of our nation and are a key resource for many communities as we work to increase activity levels.

“That’s why it’s vital we support local authorities to ensure the long-term viability of these important facilities.

“This latest capital investment, which is worth £60m, will improve the energy efficiency of public facilities with pools and is targeted at the places with greatest need.

“By helping to keep running costs down, it will help keep hundreds of pools open and ensure future generations can learn to swim and enjoy a lifetime of benefits.”

To find out more, please click here to visit the Swimming Pool Support Fund page on Sport England’s website.