28 Mar 2017

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Christchurch City Council is looking at ways to make its recreation facilities more accessible, particularly for those on low incomes.

As part of the consultation on its Draft Annual Plan 2017-18, the Council wants public feedback on a number of options that could lower the costs at Council recreation facilities for children and senior citizens.

A swim instructor helps a young student learn to float on his back.

Are you prepared to pay slightly more in rates to help pay for free swim lessons for those who find the costs a barrier?

The options outlined include:

Free swimming entry for children. Rates would need to rise by an extra 0.2 per cent (or $5.01 per year for the average household) for this to happen. The Council would also lose about $800,000 a year in revenue.

Two dollar family days once a month. A rate increase of 0.018 per cent (or 45 cents a year for the average household) would be needed to fund this initiative. The Council could expect to lose $76,500 in revenue.

Free swimming lessons for those who find the costs a barrier. This option would require a rate increase of 0.012 per cent (or 30 cents a year for the average household) and lead to a $50,000 drop in revenue for the Council.

The Council is keen to hear whether you support either of those options. It is also keen to hear other suggestions you might have about how to make Council recreation facilities more accessible.

You can give your feedback online or via the Council's Facebook or Twitter pages.