Rebecca Harris MP has welcomed the news that Waterside Farm Leisure Centre in Castle Point will benefit from a £98,800 investment to improve its energy efficiency.

The funding is part of the Swimming Pool Support Fund which has invested £80 million into 442 swimming pools across the country since last year. The investment will fund energy efficiency measures at Waterside Farm Leisure Centre by installing Photo Voltaic (PV) panels, relieving financial pressure by reducing running costs.

Under the new sports strategy, the Conservative Government is aiming to get 3.5 million more people active by 2030, meeting the Chief Medical Officer’s guidance of 150 minutes per week of exercise for adults and 60 minutes per day for young people. Alongside the Swimming Pool Support Fund, this Conservative Government is investing over £300 million in grassroots sports facilities including football pitches and tennis courts, sticking to the plan to get more people active, improving people’s health to ensure a brighter future for all.

Commenting, Rebecca said:

“Waterside Farm Leisure Centre on Canvey Island is a brilliant facility, allowing people of all ages and abilities to access the mental and physical benefits that come with exercise.

“That is why I am delighted that Waterside Farm Leisure Centre has received £98,800 investment from this Conservative Government, improving the pool's energy efficiency, keeping running costs down and giving more people the opportunity to swim.”

Sports Minister Stuart Andrew said:

 “We are sticking to our plan to get millions more people active by 2030, because we know that active people are fitter, happier and healthier. Millions of people swim every year in England, but increased energy costs mean some pools are struggling financially. This further £60 million of support from the Government and Sport England will ensure hundreds of swimming pools can lower their operating costs in the long run and continue to provide an important service for communities across the country.”