A POPULAR Redditch swimming club which has taught hundreds of children vital lifesaving skills is facing closure following council cutbacks.
The Bridge Swimming Club at Kingsley Sport Centre has been running for more than 40 years transforming the lives of youngsters across the borough.
However due to council cutbacks sparked by a huge reduction in government grant, the authority is to give up its share of the venue and Arrow Vale Sport Centre leaving coaches and swimmers devastated.
Volunteer and coach Sue Robinson said: “It’s not just about one little club losing its facilities – it’s about the whole community. It’s going to impact upon schools and other clubs who use it as well as members of the public who enjoy swimming there regularly.”
The news comes just months after the club’s founder and BBC’s Sports Personality Unsung Hero finalist David Finney retired.
The council’s drastic action was prompted by Government cuts in support grants which have seen Redditch go from receiving £4million to, by 2021, paying an estimated £300,000 back to the Treasury.
The measure to surrender its interests in the Kingsley and Arrow Vale is expected to net the authority a saving of nearly £150,000.
Unless the facility is adopted by another body – such as a business or school – the centre could face closure leaving The Bridge club without a venue from July.
The council has offered the club a slot once a fortnight at the Abbey Stadium however it is felt this wouldn’t be enough for new swimmers to progress well.
“Sadly, a one hour lesson every two weeks just isn’t enough. I really feel the closure of Kingsley will leave Redditch’s growing population with an inadequate level of leisure facilities,” said Sue.
Fellow instructor and Bridge Church member Ken Poyner added: “Generations of swimmers have benefited from the club. We always have a long list of children waiting to join so we know there is a need for affordable swimming lessons in the Redditch community. It is a great pity and it will be missed.”
John Godwin, the borough’s head of leisure and cultural services, said: “We believe we have offered a suitable alternative that will allow the club to continue and be sustainable in the long term. If that session unsuitable, we will work with the club as far as reasonably possible to find them a new home.”
David Finney set up the club, formerly the Redditch Boys and Girls Brigade Swimming Club, more than 40 years ago with Tom Ryder at Hewell Road swimming Pool before moving to Kingsley.
