Earlier this week it was reported by the BBC that British Swimming will continue to adjust their budget and funding structure with the latest move effecting the intensive training centres (ITC) in both Swansea and Stirling. The effects of these budget cuts to the operations of the two ITCs may not be as drastic as first perceived.
Both Sport Scotland and Sport Wales have been working extremely hard with British Swimming to ensure both ITCs not only survive the funding cuts, but continue to thrive.
A contact who is very close to the situation in Wales has told SwimSwam that the reports of what is occurring have not been telling the entire story. The talks between Sport Wales and British Swimming have been very positive and both parties are very motivated to create a joint funding agreement.
Although there will be an adjustment to the budget there is a positive feeling that even with streamlining that will occur in their operations the effect on the services will be minor.
The BBC also reported that the Scottish Government is very determined to keep the ITC in Stirling up and running, “We will seek urgent discussions with British Swimming and UK Sport about these proposals and make clear our concern about any cut in funding to the Stirling centre,” said a Scottish Government spokeswoman.
“We also want to reassure athletes that the Scottish Government through the Sportscotland Institute of Sport will ensure the continuation of high-performance training facilities and performance programmes for our swimmers here in Scotland.”
All parties involved are hoping that they can announce a new agreement and structure by early October.