Overview

• Research cited by the GMB shows about 500 public pools have shut since 2010, with nearly half closing in the past five years.
• The closures have removed more than 34,000 square metres of water space and have hit many council-owned sites across England, Wales and Scotland.
• A coalition of local government and leisure bodies reports that 30% of Year 7 children cannot swim 25 metres, up from 27% in 2017/18.
• The same report warns that roughly 60% of pools are beyond their expected lifespan or require significant refurbishment.
• The Government says it has pledged £400 million for grassroots facilities and that DCMS is working with the sector to understand local needs.