20 March 2018
New pricing structure for Aberdeenshire sporting facilities
A new pricing structure for sporting facilities in Aberdeenshire is about to come into force.
The new structure will be rolled out from the 1st April 2018 onwards, and sees discounts and reductions available for low income groups and young people.
Under the new pricing structure low income groups are entitled to 60% reductions off the standard fee whilst young people will benefit from a 30% discount.
The pricing policy was agreed by councillors in 2017 and is being rolled out over a phased period from last year up to April 2020. However, the latest changes to the charges will be introduced from Sunday, April 1. Many users will not see any changes in price, as there is no overall inflationary increase, meaning many prices across culture and sport are ‘frozen’ at their existing rates.
Leisure centre staff are also on hand to help customers find the most cost-effective price for them. For example, they may be better off taking out a monthly membership rather than paying a single fee.
Cllr Anne Stirling, chair of the Communities Committee said: “Our over-riding ambition is to make our sporting facilities both sustainable and accessible for everyone in Aberdeenshire. This is a fundamental part of our ambitions as set out in the Council Plan, to ensure people stay happy and healthy. When Councillors agreed the new prices, they were reassured to see officers work very hard to ensure that new charges are balances and fair.
“In the previous five years we have developed new and improved leisure facilities in, Aboyne, Alford, Banff, Ellon, Fraserburgh, Kemnay, Laurencekirk and Macduff, with building work currently ongoing at Banchory and Inverurie and we have replaced synthetic pitch surfaces in Peterhead, Turriff and Mintlaw.
“It is essential that people make the best use of the advice available to them. Anyone who would like to discuss their charges is being actively encouraged to contact their local leisure centre where staff are happy to discuss which package might work best for you. Changes to pricing have been made following customer feedback and it is our intention that we continue to listen to our customers, so we can develop the service that meets their needs whilst offering best value.”
| Item | Current Price | New Price |
| Adult swimmer | £4.55 | £5 |
| Adult Active Swim membership | £25 per month | £25 per month |
| Junior / Student swimmer | £2.25 | £2.85 |
| Active Aberdeenshire standard membership | £28.90 per month | £31.00 per month |
| Low income swim | £2 | £2 |
| Under 6 years old | Free | Free |
| All spectators | Free | Free |
| Family swim ticket (2 adults, 3 children) | £10.20 | £12.75 |
| Active Aberdeenshire Day Rate | £8.50 | £8.50 |
| Aquafit / Floatfit | £6 | £6 |
Some examples of changes in the pricing structure are below, and the full list can be found online at: http://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/leisure-sport-and-culture/sport-and-fitness/sports-and-activity-charges/standard-prices/
The full list online details changes in individual memberships, court, pitch and track hire, room hire and pool charges. The agreed changes will also impact on some charges at the Macduff Aquarium, which will be posted on their website in due course.