Increase in Leisure Charges totally unacceptable

Pensioners are facing a 40% increase in the cost of swimming at Borough pools thanks to the Conservatives reducing the concessionary offer.

Liberal Democrat Councillors scrutinised the new proposed fees and charges for Leisure in Bedford Borough on Thursday evening (21st) and reacted angrily to the changes.

Cllr Charles Royden said, ‘This is a disgraceful increase for pensioners, who are already struggling with rising costs, cuts to winter fuel payments, cuts to bus services and more.  The Conservatives talk about wanting to increase use of our pools – than whack on a 40% increase for pensioners.  What’s more, they will now have to buy a £5.50 card for the privilege of these higher prices – if they don’t prices will double.  The Conservatives can always find money for their pet projects, yet choose to hit ordinary residents with cost increases like this.  When will this Conservative Mayor realise that his policies are actively harming ordinary people in the Borough?’ 

Currently, the charge for 60+ is £2.70 to turn up and swim at Robinson Pool, and £5.50 as the 18 – 59 price. 

Council proposals mean that only over 65s will benefit from reduced charges and only if they buy a Senior Card for £5.50, which will give them 30% off the £5.50 charge. This means that anyone over 65 80 year old would in the future pay £5.50 if they don’t buy a card, and £3.85 if they do –  an increase of over 40% on the £2.70 they are currently being charged.