Pensioners will now be charged to swim at Glasgow pools, under new pricing plans.

Operators Glasgow Life said the changes have been made as the ‘most affluent’ make use of the free swimming at the higher rate than the least affluent.

Changes will be brought in at Glasgow Life swimming pools, including Scotstoun, Pollok and Tollcross.

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Pensioners will have to pay £3 to use swimming facilities from May 28, while under 18s and anyone who qualifies under the new concession criteria will be charged £1.

A local elderly resident, who was taking his grandson swimming, was shocked to hear the changes had been put it in place.

He said: “It used to be free for us both to go so I would take him any time I could but now they’re charging.

He added: “It’s absolutely ridiculous.

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“Considering how bad Glasgow health is, they should be doing everything they can to get people to exercise, not to deter them.”

A spokeswoman for Glasgow Sport said: "We've reviewed our range of memberships and activity prices to ensure a variety of benefits for our customers.

"This includes a fairer and simpler pricing structure; encouraging people to be more active, more often by introducing excellent value for money; and targeting discounted prices at those who need reduced pricing options.

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“An unintended consequence of a blanket approach to free activities (such as swimming) intended to make facilities accessible to the most vulnerable in society, is that it also benefits the most affluent and least in need of financial assistance.

"As we have seen over the years in Glasgow, often the most affluent take up the offer at a greater rate than the least affluent and this widens inequality.

“Our research into free swimming tells us that most who take up the free offer would have been happy to pay something, and would still have attended even if there was a fee.

"Continuing to offer free swimming but taking a more targeted approach allows us to provide a better offer for those who actually need our help most particularly families who through our targeted offer can all swim together at no charge.

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“In addition to a targeted free swim programme, from 28 May, a swim costs just £3 for adults and £1 for juniors and anyone who qualifies under the new concession criteria.

"These changes mean Glasgow will be among the least expensive places to swim in Scotland as £1 for children is well below the Scottish average of £2.48 and £3 for adults is below the Scottish average of £4.07.

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"Swimming will also be more affordable for a family on low income as all now pay £1 where parents previously had to pay £2.30 each, even if the child went free.

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“Asking those who can afford to pay a fair price of just £3 ensures we have a sustainable business model and can continue to offer services in the future as well as extending support for those who need it most.”