During our time running Basildon Council, The Basildon Labour Party made it a key priority to develop swimming provision within the borough. From increasing investment in swimming pools to developing plans for a new pool in Pitsea eight years after the Conservatives bulldozed the previous one. Basildon Labour presented fully costed proposals to introduce free swimming sessions for children during school holidays, a proposal that was REJECTED by the Conservatives. Basildon Labour know the benefits that swimming can bring to children but acknowledge that the cost can be a barrier towards participation, in particular during school holidays. If elected in May it will be a key priority for us to invest in free swimming provision for children during school holidays.