MP Expresses Disappointment As Trafford Council Refuse To Offer Free Swimming To Residents - 09/12/2008 |
 Sale East MP Paul Goggins today condemned Trafford Council for not applying for funds to offer free swimming to local residents.
Trafford Council has refused to apply for Government funding to provide free swimming for over 60s and under 16s. Manchester City Council has applied for the funding so will offer free swimming sessions to residents living in Manchester.
Paul Goggins said: “It is really disappointing that Trafford Council did not apply for these funds. This means that my constituents in Sale will not benefit from the Government’s £140 million free swimming fund, whilst those I represent in Wythenshawe will. Trafford Council should explain why they don’t think their residents are worth it, and are denying them the chance to swim for free.
“We all know that exercise is important, and it is essential that we all try and encourage people to take part in physical activities. Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise because it’s something people of all ages can do.
“Trafford Council are developing an unwelcome reputation for ignoring the needs of older and younger people alike. This was their chance to redeem themselves and they have blown it.”
Notes to Editors:
• Further information on the free swimming initiative and other Olympic legacy schemes is available of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport website: www.culture.gov.uk
• The swimming scheme is jointly funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Department of Health, Department for Work and Pensions, the Department for Children, Schools and Families and the Department for Communities and Local Government.
• For information on the Free Swimming Capital Modernisation Programme is available on the Sport England website: www.sportengland.org
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