Calderdale Council faces severe financial pressures which will have an impact on delivery of proposed development projects across the borough.
The challenges of rapid inflation, loss of income, uncertainly about funding local authorities will receive from Government and increased demand for services have made it necessary for the Council to review financial requirements for delivering its major projects. Here’s their statement on their plans to save money:
Unfortunately, following a thorough assessment, the Council has had to take the difficult decision to pause the development of the new Halifax Leisure Centre and Swimming Pool for a full review at this point in time.
This decision has not been taken lightly, but the anticipated costs for the project have already increased significantly, with no guarantee that they will not rise further as the project progresses.
This position is unsustainable in the context of the multiple budget pressures facing the Council after years of austerity and following the impact of the pandemic. Having already made savings of £120 million by 2023/2024 compared to its 2010 budget, the Council is now forecasting that further savings of £10.2 million, £12.9 million and £18.4 million will be required in the financial years to 2025/2026.
This also comes as the cost of living crisis continues to impact local people and their spending habits, which in turn may affect their use of leisure centres.
