Leisure centre prices rising to fund upgrades

Membership prices to leisure centres in Mid Devon of are set to increase in the new year

Membership prices for some leisure centres are set to increase in the new year.

The rise comes after council plans to invest £760,000 to improve its three Mid Devon District Council leisure sites in Culm Valley, Exe Valley and Lords Meadow.

The council said it was "pleased to report its highest ever membership base" and as a result, wanted prices to remain highly competitive.

Councillor Josh Wright said the cabinet chose to "implement a smaller price increase than was recommended by our specialist consultants".

'The right balance'

Full monthly membership will see an increase of £2 to £41 and the swim membership will rise by £1 to £35.

Mr Wright said: "When considering any price rises, the council must strike the right balance between affordability to leisure users and the cost of the leisure service to Mid Devon taxpayers."

Improvements include a functional studio and new gym equipment at Culm Valley Leisure Centre, and new poolside changing rooms at Exe Valley in Tiverton and Lords Meadow in Crediton.

The council added it would also be investing in new software to simplify the booking experience across its sites.

The changes to membership prices will come into effect from 1 January 2025.