Richmond Council is investigating local interest in outdoor saunas and how it could operate them in the borough, as it looks for ways to tackle unprecedented financial pressures.
The council told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) it is researching outdoor sauna provision, with a particular interest in more sustainable models – including electric-powered options rather than traditional wood-fired saunas. This research would be used to develop any future proposals if the council decided to proceed.
A notice issued by the council says it is consulting suppliers to better understand how the outdoor sauna market works and find out “whether potential opportunities are commercially and operationally viable”. The deadline for engagement is listed as October 22.
It comes as the authority looks to generate income to tackle financial pressures, with a new government funding formula set to cut its core funding by £29 million a year by 2029. This amounts to 58 per cent of its central funding.
While it is challenging the cuts alongside Wandsworth, Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea councils, it has put forward a major transformation programme to overhaul its departments and save £39m annually by 2029. A report on the plans says the authority is also looking at ways to raise cash, including providing outdoor saunas.
The council told the LDRS: “The council is exploring growing public interest in outdoor wellness and recreation, which can bring social, health and wellbeing benefits for residents. There may also be opportunities to generate income to support the long-term sustainability of parks and leisure services at a time of financial pressure.
“At this early stage, we want to understand the level of interest in outdoor saunas and how they could operate. We are particularly interested in lower-impact, more sustainable approaches, including electric-powered options rather than traditional wood-burning models.
“This research, alongside feedback from stakeholders, will help shape any future proposals. These would also need to take account of legal and planning requirements, environmental and site-specific impacts, financial viability, and the benefits for our communities.”
