Jonathan Gullis MP for Stoke-on-Trent North has celebrated Government investment into Kidsgrove Sports Centre. As part of the Department for Culture Media and Sport’s Swimming Pool support fund, the centre is set to receive £235,375.
At last year’s Spring Budget, the Chancellor announced over £60 million public funding for swimming pools and this investment builds on that programme of upgrades.
The newly reponed £17.4 million Kidsgrove Sports Centre that reponed kin 2022 after being left neglected and was forced to close by previous Labour administrations. Since re-opening, Kidsgrove Sports Centre has seen over 35,000 people visit , with research demonstrating a 20% uplift in physical and mental health since opening. This undoubtedly proves the immensely positive impact the sports centre has had on the local community.
Putin’s illegal and abhorrent invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has put significant pressures on local leisure centres, with the cost of utilities going up by 400%. This cash-boost will be most welcome as it will give leisure centres much-needed support through these challenging times.
The fund benefits sports centres like Kidsgrove which have been struggling with rising energy costs. With Fenton Manor Sports Complex in Stoke-on=Trent South set to receive nearly £500,000, this means nearly £800,000 worth of investment into boosting activity levels in Stoke-on-Trent.
Commenting, Jonathan Gullis MP said: “Kidsgrove Sports Centre – recklessly left neglected under a previous Labour administration – has proven its worth by boosting physical and mental well-being.”
“However, the cost of energy has meant it’s been difficult to make ends meet. This vital cash injection from the Government will help keep it afloat so the community can continue to benefit.”