This research project will investigate the extent to which sport provision has been impacted by the current global recession. The study will focus on the Quarry Swimming Centre in Shrewsbury as a case study and seek to identify lessons that can be learned from how the way in which this particular organisation is operating in the current financial climate.

Abstract

This study is a case study investigation as to the extent to which the current global recession is having an impact upon public sector sport provision. The case study in question is a swimming and leisure facility in Shrewsbury. Gratton et.al (2004) describes how the use of case study research is based upon the argument that understanding human activity requires analysis of both its development over time and the environment and context within which the activity occurs. With this in mind a methodology of the context was brought together which identifies the use of interviews and questionnaires as the best tool for gathering qualitative data. The methodology section discusses the use of both questionnaires and interviews and how each of these were tailored as to ensure that the correct data was collected. The results section of the study outlines some consistent themes that were discussed during the data collection. These were as follows: • Diversity of programs • Restructuring of council • Free swim initiative • Staff cuts • Public versus private • Change in pricing strategy Having identified some of the main themes the next aim of the study was to discuss these in current context of the global recession and how the two may be linked. The conclusion then evaluates the study and its effectiveness and looks at how there may be possible avenues of future studies that can build upon the research carried out throughout this process.