A splashing new initiative is now underway - giving people of all ages the chance to get a free swim if they pedal to their local leisure centre.
If you travel by cycle to the Allander Leisure Centre in Bearsden, the Leisuredrome in Bishopbriggs or Kirkintilloch Leisure Centre between today (Friday 1 February) and Sunday 24 March 2019 then you are eligible for a free dip in the pool.
The initiative has been extended by popular demand, following a successful trial at the Leisuredrome.
To claim your free swimming session just cycle to one of the three local centres, take a selfie on your bike outside and then show it to reception employees inside.
People are also being invited to post photos on the Council's Facebook and Twitter, using the hashtag #cycleforaswim
The scheme is being run by the Council and East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture (EDLC) Trust - funded by the Smarter Choices, Smarter Places programme, which is aimed at encouraging active travel.
Councillor Susan Murray, Vice Convener of Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets, said, "This is a great new initiative which encourages people of all ages to cycle and swim - two of the best exercises for keeping fit and improving wellbeing.
"I am delighted the trial initiative was received so positively and would encourage as many people as possible to get involved by cycling to one of our three local leisure centres - in Kirkintilloch, Bishopbriggs and Bearsden.
Sandy Marshall, Chair of EDLC Trust, said, "This is very welcome news. Well done to everyone involved from the Council and EDLC.
"I hope it will inspire people of all ages to get out and about, and also to access the wonderful leisure facilities available locally."
More than 100 free swimming sessions were accessed during the trial (8 October-4 November 2018). Comments included:
- "What a great idea - please extend to other places."
- "Excellent idea. Should roll out across EDC."
- "Please roll out to the Allander too when you can."
In the financial year 2017/18, people enjoyed 393,597 swims across the three local leisure centres.
For more information – including opening times at the leisure centres – visit www.edlc.co.uk
Pedalling patrons are also being urged to try out active travel routes in East Dunbartonshire. For more information on local active travel routes - including the East Dunbartonshire Cycle Map, which features 17 routes to try out - visit www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/healthyhabits
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- Pictured above (from left) are Iain Campbell, Operations Manager at Kirkintilloch Leisure Centre; Mark Grant, General Manager of EDLC Trust; Councillor Susan Murray, Vice Convener of Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets; and Kimberley Ewan, Transport Development Officer.
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