The future of Norton Radstock Swimming Club is under threat, following the decision by Aquaterra, current operator of Wansdyke Leisure Centre, to increase their fees and reduce pool time available for coaching young people.

The first the club knew of plans to increase their charges came in December, when Aquaterra notified their Treasurer that following a change of Manager at the centre, it had been discovered that they had been undercharging the club for a number of years.

Whilst the club were still in the process of challenging the logic for demanding an initial 14% increase on their pool fees, Aquaterra dropped the further bombshell last week that they had also decided to cut the club's pool time by 25%, suggesting shared usage between the club and the public.

A club spokesperson said, "After sixty years of coaching thousands of local young people, it's difficult to imagine how the club can continue with such a large price increase, combined with the loss of pool time at critical evening sessions. Quite apart from the suddenness of these changes – because we are a volunteer-led group and operate a balanced budget, we would be forced to pass the full cost increase onto our members.

"At a time when many families are struggling to manage their household finances, this could potentially result in the resignations of members. Plans were already in place to increase the length of sessions for the most talented swimmers to maximise their potential. This opportunity would prepare swimmers prior to signposting through the development pathway into Aquae Sulis Performance Swimming Club, where additional training can be accessed to supplement training at the home club. This would ensure swimmers remain with the NRSC, instead of leaving to join one of the larger twelve clubs within the Aquae Sulis Network who can offer more pool time. Unfortunately, due to the announcement, we will need to consider if this is still possible."

Norton Radstock Swimming Club is a highly respected organisation, not just locally, but nationally. London 2012 Team GB Olympian and NRSC Life Member, Stacey Tadd, has also added her support to the cause.

Local B&NES Councillors have rallied to support the beleaguered club and have been questioning what is behind the sudden changes. "It is unclear why Aquaterra are making these changes now, when they only have a few months left on their lease before the Leisure Centre in Midsomer Norton is taken over by Writhlington Sports Trust at the beginning of July. We have requested a meeting with the Chief Executive of B&NES in order to try and get to the bottom of why

Norton Radstock Swimming Club, despite being a community group and a major user, is apparently being treated so appallingly," said Cllr Chris Watt, B&NES Midsomer Norton Redfield.

Prior to going to press, the B&NES Councillors were advised that a meeting has been arranged by Norton Radstock Swimming Club with local Aquaterra management. Matt Wise, Director of Leisure for Writhlington Trust, added he intends to meet user groups at the centre prior to the Trust taking control in July and will listen to concerns.