Shropshire leisure centre costs to rise from next year

Fees are due to go up by an average of three per cent across the county, while the five centres now under the control of Shropshire Community

Leisure Trust will also be subject to price rises averaging 2.66 per cent. The plans have been included in a report going to Shropshire Council's cabinet tomorrow.

It is hoped the price increases, which would come into effect from January 1, will help the council bring in extra income and meet its tough financial targets.

The changes are due to affect prices at Shropshire Community Leisure Trust's Whitchurch Swimming Centre, Market Drayton Swimming Pool,

Oswestry Leisure Centre, Shrewsbury Sports Village and the Quarry Swimming Pool.

The trust, which was set up in August, has hired private firm Serco to provide management services at the five sites as part of an initial 10-year contract.

But its prices are to rise slightly less than Shropshire's other leisure centres under the plans, with the trust's charges going up by an average 2.66 per cent.

The report said: "Current fees and charges at Shropshire's remaining leisure facilities have recently been reviewed by managers and, with the exception of some specific areas, average increases of three per cent are proposed with effect from January.

"Exceptions to this three per cent increase include all Swim Academy fees in order to remain competitive with other providers, special children's activities to encourage participation and fitness suite monthly direct debits in view of local competition."

After the plans are examined by Shropshire Council's cabinet tomorrow, the report will also be put in front of a meeting of the full council on December 13.

The report said the council has plans in place to save £85 million by 2015, with cuts of £21 million needed in 2013/14.