Council plans pool cuts and higher interest rates to plug budget gap
A rising budget shortfall has pushed the council to review swimming pool operations. With costs climbing and income falling, changes are being planned to balance the books. Residents may see reduced opening hours and higher interest rates as part of the solution.
The council expects to lose £550,000 in pool income next year. Fewer people are signing up for lessons, and general admissions have dropped. A cryptosporidiosis outbreak and cost of living pressures have kept visitors away.
Running costs for the pools will also rise by £290,000. To cover the deficit, a 0.6% mortgage rates increase has been proposed on top of the planned 9.5% average rise. The council is now working on a 'targeted operating model' to find further savings, with more details due in February.
Long-term plans include major refurbishments for Stokes Valley and Wainuiomata pools over the next decade. However, in the short term, reduced opening hours may be introduced to cut expenses.
The proposed changes aim to address a growing financial gap in pool operations. Residents will learn more about the savings plan in February, including potential cuts to services. The council’s adjustments will affect both interest rates and pool access in the coming year.
