Anger as the cost of staying fit is set to rise (From Barry And District News)

Anger as the cost of staying fit is set to rise

THE cost of keeping fit in Barry soared last week when the Vale of Glamorgan Council increased its leisure charges by as much as 30 percent.

The price hike came into being on Monday, September 5, and will effect all leisure activities and all age groups.

An adult swim has gone up from 1.90 to 2.50 (an increase of 31.6 percent). An adult peak-time gym session has gone up from 4.20 to 4.90 (an increase of 16.7 percent. And a junior swim has gone up from 1.55 to 1.90 (an increase of 22.6 percent).

Those who use leisure centres frequently will be able to make some savings by joining the council's new Freestyle scheme (adult membership costs 10 a year and junior and senior citizen membership costs 6 a year), but some Barry residents are unhappy with this.

Paul Haley, of Windsor Road, said: "I find it hard to understand how the recent price increases are justifiable.

"Circuit training sessions have gone up from 2.90 to 3.50, which is a 20 percent increase, and well above any annual inflation rise.

"This 20 percent increase may deter newcomers, who should be fully encouraged to get fit and healthy, and which for us all may reduce future health service requirements.

He added: "Better consultation and communication is needed, and an explanation of what extra value will be offered for the 20 percent increase. Posters on walls telling us to kindly note that there was no price increase in April is poor one-way closed communication."

And Anne Williams agrees. She said: "Its disgusting. Me, my husband and my son went for a swim, and it cost us 6.90, which is quite expensive."

The council's operational manager for leisure, Dave Knevett, said: "The majority of price rises introduced this year have been in line with inflation.

"However, some prices have risen slightly higher than the level of inflation as we undertake a more fundamental review of our prices each year, and take into account what our competitors in the private sector, and leisure centres run by neighbouring councils are charging.

"The introduction of the new Freestyle scheme means that rather than being worse off due to these price increases, our regular customers will be rewarded for their loyalty and will ultimately save money."