Bradwell swimming pool gets slice of government funding

Earlier this year, people living in Bradwell complained of low temperatures in the pool and showers at Phoenix Leisure Centre on Widgeon Close.

This prompted a visit by Great Yarmouth Borough councillor Daniel Candon who said that residents had told him the waters were too cold for swimming.

By July, all three boilers at the facility had been repaired - and Mr Candon praised staff and council officers for resolving the matter. 

Daniel Candon, Great Yarmouth borough councillor based in Bradwell. (Image: Submitted)

Now the leisure centre is set to benefit from a slice of the government's Swimming Pool Support Fund.

This first £20 million of funding is going to the swimming pools and leisure centres most at risk of closure or significant service reduction and will be used to help with the recent rise in energy costs, such as paying towards immediate maintenance costs, heating, and pool chemicals.  

Brandon Lewis, MP for Great Yarmouth, said: “I know how important swimming is for many people in Bradwell and the wider area.

"I also understand that swimming pools and leisure facilities have struggled over recent months as operating costs have increased.

"The support for this vital leisure facility will help manage increased operating costs so residents can continue getting fit and healthy.

"I am delighted that the government has listened to concerns about the impact of higher energy prices on leisure centres and has stepped in with this funding package," he added.

Freedom Leisure took over the reins at the Phoenix from Sentinel Leisure in January 2022.

The company operates more than 100 leisure, cultural and entertainment venues across the UK, including the Marina Centre on Great Yarmouth seafront.