Aberdeenshire Council have announced price changes at sporting facilities across the area.

The initial stages of the new pricing structure came into effect from 1st April 2018.

The changes will affect facilities such as Inberverive Sports Centre and Stonehaven Leisure Centre.

Councillors agreed on the new pricing policy in 2017. It is to be rolled out over a phased period up to April 2020.

Low-income groups and young people will both benefit from discounts on the standard fees under the new pricing structure.

Most standard prices will rise by a small amount, but some will stay the same.

Cllr Anne Stirling, chair of the Communities Committee said: “Our over-riding ambition is to make our sporting facilities both sustainable and accessible for everyone in Aberdeenshire. This is a fundamental part of our ambitions as set out in the Council Plan, to ensure people stay happy and healthy. When Councillors agreed the new prices, they were reassured to see officers work very hard to ensure that new charges are balances and fair.

“In the previous five years we have developed new and improved leisure facilities in, Aboyne, Alford, Banff, Ellon, Fraserburgh, Kemnay, Laurencekirk and Macduff, with building work currently ongoing at Banchory and Inverurie and we have replaced synthetic pitch surfaces in Peterhead, Turriff and Mintlaw.

“It is essential that people make the best use of the advice available to them. Anyone who would like to discuss their charges is being actively encouraged to contact their local leisure centre where staff are happy to discuss which package might work best for you. Changes to pricing have been made following customer feedback and it is our intention that we continue to listen to our customers, so we can develop the service that meets their needs whilst offering best value.”

A full list of the price changes can be found here