City of York Council's leisure services review is not simply about the possible closure of two swimming pools. It concerns the future of local government.

The first role of councils will always be to supply essential services, such as schools, street lighting and refuse collection. Traditionally they have also provided additional amenities including libraries, museums, parks and swimming pools.

These were often built by paternalistic authorities eager to improve the mental and physical well-being of the masses. They were once a source of considerable municipal pride.

Times have changed. Such high-handed attitudes would now be thought patronising. Cash-strapped councils frequently regard their pools and museums as a financial burden rather than a source of pride.

Local government's resulting identity crisis is reflected in York's leisure review. What are modern councils for? Are they simply here to provide the basics for the cheapest possible charge? Or do they still have a duty to provide extras such as swimming pools, even though they are a huge drain on resources?

It is right that City of York Council is searching for ways to provide best value for our money. Councillors are also right to see the protection of front-line services as their first duty.

However, such sensible streamlining should not diminish the quality of life for local people. Admittedly, schools are more essential than swimming pools. But pools are nevertheless vital. Vital for children learning to swim in a city full of waterways. Vital for those recovering from illness. Vital for the frail elderly, and for people who simply enjoy swimming and its associated health benefits.

Only the council can provide local pools, accessible to those without their own transport, at prices everyone can afford. Turning these facilities over to privately-run leisure clubs may improve the health of the council's bank balance, but it will do little for the health of the city.

Public money should still be spent on those community facilities that the private sector cannot provide. That is why we are fighting to save our pools.

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