Council leader defies cuts with free swimming pledge

Coun Mehboob Khan said withdrawing the scheme contradicted all the positive messages being given about healthy and active lifestyles, and would have a disproportionate impact on those in most need.

He added: "This Government announcement was made last week without any consultation, just before the start of the summer holidays, and when we want more people to become more active.

"I have asked colleagues at Kirklees Active Leisure to look at how we can possibly keep this valuable scheme locally – since it began more than 100,000 free swims have been taken by customers aged 16 and under or 60 and over, and at a time when the recession is biting and people need to consider how they spend their disposable income, this scheme really helps."

The Government decision will mean a loss to Kirklees of almost 250,000, a loss of 200 hours free swimming per week.

Coun Khan added: "There is also run a free swimming lesson programme in parallel to this scheme which is likely to be hit. We will need to take a decision on the future viability of offering the free swim scheme.

"We will do all we can to keep this going as the social and health benefits cannot be underestimated."

Council officers are preparing a report for a scrutiny panel meeting on July 1.