Free swimming to end for OAPs and children in Milton Keynes

Residents in Bletchley and Fenny Stratford have enjoyed free use of their local leisure centre swimming pool - courtesy of the town council - for the past four years.

Last year the council =funded 5,575 swims. But members have now decided the money could be put to better use.

The decision to sink the scheme has enraged borough councillors in the ward.

Bletchley East councillor Martin Gowans said the move was “shocking”, shortsighted and against all fitness advice.

But Bletchley town council vice-chair Richard Graham said ward members had not even approached them to discuss the issue or ask their reasons. “We did not make this decision lightly,” he said.

The town council will save around £10.500 a year by stopping free swimming. The decision is part of an “evaluation and development” of resources spending priorities.

The three borough councillors for West Bletchley and Fenny are urging the town council to think again. They’ve not offered financial help as they say the town council has enough cash.