Shirley swimming pool hit with fivefold increase in energy bills

Shirley swimming pool's running costs are going from £30,000 per year to £150,000. 

Owner Luke Perry said it would be "awful" if the pool had to close after 50 years. 

But with further increases on the horizon, more help is needed from the government to keep his business afloat.

Luke said: "This year has been very challenging for the business. 

"We were hoping that at some point the prices would come back down but they keep going up and up.

"It is getting worse and we can't afford to pay." 

"During the lockdown, the government reduced the VAT rate for leisure and hospitality sectors to five per cent. But because we are a unique independent business we are overlooked," Luke added. 

Shirley Pool

The 33-year-old took over the family business, which was founded by his grandfather in 1974, two years ago.

However, keeping the business running is becoming increasingly difficult as it costs "a lot of money". 

Luke is appealing for the public's help to raise £25,000 to save the pool from the energy crisis. 

He said: "All funds will go toward equipping the building with solar thermal heating for the pool and solar PV panels to generate electricity on-site." 

He believes this will protect the business from "soaring" prices whilst reducing its carbon footprint by 60 to 70 per cent. 

The Kentish Road pool welcomes more than 1,300 users each week, teaching people of all ages, from babies to adults, how to swim. 

The father of two added: "My parents were swimming coaches here so I have been swimming all my life. 

"It would be awful for the community if we had to close down, and they'd have to find somewhere else to swim." 

So far, the fundraiser has raised £2,000.

Luke said: "It is quite amazing. 

"We have received some really kind and supportive messages. It is really nice and positive to have this support. 

"This initiative is not only about raising money, but also about raising awareness about how independent businesses are struggling." 

To support the fundraiser, you can donate here. 

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