Free use of Staffordshire leisure centres for armed forces extended for a year
A scheme that gives members of the armed forces in Cannock Chase free use of leisure centres is due to be extended for a further 12 months.
The number of servicemen taking up the concession has grown by a third in the past year, with 130 Army, Navy and Air Force personnel now benefitting from the scheme.
Of those, 79 are registered at Chase Leisure Centre in Cannock, with the remaining 54 based at Rugeley Leisure Centre. Just 14 were members prior to the scheme being introduced three years ago.
The new figures are in contrast to the previous 12 months which saw the numbers fall.
Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust (WLCT), the company in charge of leisure centres across Cannock, reports turning a profit from running the scheme for the first time as a result of membership upgrades and other family members joining.
The offer allows servicemen and women to use fitness suites and swimming pools at both leisure centres at no cost.
WLCT has agreed to cover the cost of the scheme for another 12 months. Cannock Chase Council's cabinet will decide on the extension of the scheme at a meeting tomorrow(THUR). Officers have recommended approval.
In a report to cabinet, head of commissioning Mike Edmonds, said: "Having assessed the impact of the operation of the scheme during 2014-15, WLCT have agreed to continue with the scheme for the financial year 2015-16, subject to an annual review and subject to there not being a negative financial impact upon the contract in the future.
"WLCT will continue to monitor and assess the scheme to determine the costs and benefits associated with making such a concession."
He added: "Cabinet are recommended to continue with this offer in recognition of the commitment made by armed forces men and women to this country in their service throughout the world."
The report says the number of servicemen and women using the leisure facilities has increased from 103 to 130 in the past year.
Previously Army, Navy and Air Force personnel were charged £25 a month - £5 cheaper than full price.
The loss in funding the scheme for the first two years was covered by WLCT from its budget. If the go ahead is given, another review will be carried out in 12 months time.
The concession is not available to veterans or wives and husbands or children of Armed Forces personnel.
The scheme was first introduced by the district council in June 2012.
