What is being proposed?
This proposal seeks to address the financial pressures across Bury Leisure while supporting a sustainable, accessible three-centre leisure offer for residents across the borough.
The service is facing increased operating and maintenance costs across the leisure estate, alongside the additional costs of bringing new leisure provision into operation before membership, participation and income have had time to build to expected levels.
To help manage these pressures and reduce the level of subsidy required, the proposal is to increase fees and charges across Bury Leisure by an additional 20%, while continuing to focus on growing membership, participation and income across the service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are leisure prices being increased?
The Council is facing significant financial pressures and must reduce the level of subsidy required to operate leisure facilities while maintaining services.
Why does the council provide a subsidy for Leisure Services?
The full cost of operating leisure centres, swimming pools, sports facilities and community programmes is rarely covered by income from memberships, admissions and activities alone. In addition Council’s have a vested interest in improving public health and wellbeing, supporting equality and inclusion and delivering wider community benefits.
What is being proposed?
Additional leisure fee increases of 20%, this would incrementally increase the price of a membership from the current cost of £35.75 per month to £42.90 in 27/28, and to £51.48 Per Month in 2028/29. The 2029/30 rates would then go back to a 10% annual increase, resulting in a cost of £56.63 for 2029/30.
Why can't the council continue to subsidise leisure services at this level?
Ongoing operating costs, maintenance liabilities and the opening of the new Radcliffe Leisure Centre create substantial financial pressures which risk the financial sustainability of the Council by increasing the funding gap and potentially preventing the Council from delivering a balanced budget.
Is Ramsbottom Leisure Centre closing?
No. The preferred option is to retain Ramsbottom Leisure Centre and increase income across the leisure estate.
Why is Ramsbottom Leisure Centre a challenge financially?
The centre operates at a net cost and requires significant remedial works.
How will the new Radcliffe Leisure Centre affect finances?
As the new centre is yet to open and build a membership base, additional operating costs will be incurred before membership income fully develops.
What would a membership cost under this proposal?
Illustrative estimates suggest around £42.90 per month in 2027/28, £51.48 in 2028/29 and £56.63 in 2029/30.
How do the proposed prices compare with other gyms?
The Council believes prices will remain competitive compared with a range of local providers with benchmarking showing a range of monthly membership from £61 - £91 for pool, gym and class facilities.
Will the increase affect all leisure facilities?
Yes, the proposal relates to charges across the leisure estate.
Are any staff reductions proposed?
No staffing reductions are included within this proposal.
What benefits will customers see from the additional income?
Income will support continued operation, maintenance and improvement of leisure facilities.
What are the risks of increasing prices?
Some customers may reduce usage or cancel memberships, although charges are expected to remain competitive.
How will the council monitor the impact?
Membership, income, usage and expenditure will be monitored and reviewed regularly.
Has a final decision been made?
No. Feedback received through consultation and budget setting will be considered before any final decision is taken.
What happens next?
Customers will be given notice of any agreed fee changes before they are implemented.