SWIMMING facilities at Redditch's Abbey Stadium are getting a £177,311 investment.

With swimming pools and leisure facilities facing rising operating costs, the government launched the Swimming Pool Support Fund, with pools and leisure facilities receiving a share of £20 million.

The swimming pool at the Abbey Stadium is one of 196 leisure centres across England receiving Government funding.

This funding will allow people in Redditch to stay fit and healthy, contributing to the government’s aim to cut obesity rates and cut waiting lists.

Reacting to the investment, Redditch MP Rachel Maclean said: “I know how important swimming is for many people in Redditch, and so I very much welcome this £177,311 government investment in swimming facilities at the Abbey Stadium.

“This funding will ensure residents can continue getting fit and healthy - contributing to the Prime Minister’s long-term aim to cut obesity rates and get millions more people active.”

Councillor Jo Beecham, portfolio holder for leisure on Redditch Borough Council, added: “As the portfolio holder for leisure, I welcome this funding from central government and know it will be put to good use for the people of Redditch.

“It's very important for everyone to learn to swim for health and especially safety around water, so I'm extremely happy that our government is prioritising swimming pool support with this fund.”