High Life Highland chief delighted that gyms and pools can reopen from end of month
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High Life Highland's chief executive says he is delighted that gyms and swimming pools can reopen from the end of this month.
Steve Walsh was speaking after First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed today that gyms, pools and indoor sports centres will be allowed operate from Monday, August 31, as long as coronavirus infection rates remain low.
That is earlier than the previous indicative date of September 14 given for gyms.
“I am absolutely delighted with the news that we are able to welcome our customers back earlier than we had first thought," Mr Walsh said. "We have been working incredibly hard behind the scenes in preparation for September and I am pleased to be able to confirm that we are ready and raring to go from Monday, August 31.”
HLH operates gyms and swimming pools across the region, all of which have been closed since March 20.
Mr Walsh said: “The announcement is what we have all been waiting for and is the most significant step in our bounceback campaign so far. We have had to make changes to the way we operate to accommodate enhanced cleaning, one-way systems, social distancing measures and booking systems, but we are most certainly ready to go.
“We will be in contact with our customers over next few days to let them know what to expect when they visit one of our centres."
The news means that HLH will be able to bring staff back from furlough and reopen the facilities that communities rely on as part of their physical activity programmes and all-round health and wellbeing,
Mr. Walsh added: “On Monday 31st we take a massive step towards normality for both our customers and staff who I know have been keen to return to their local venues. I would therefore take this opportunity to thank them all for their patience and understanding during these unprecedented times.”
From Monday, August 24, the following will be allowed to resume:
- Live events outdoors with restricted numbers
- Organised outdoor contact sports for all ages – with the number being coached restricted to 30
- Indoor advice services such as Citizens Advice Scotland
- Bingo halls
- Driving lessons
- Snooker/ pool halls
- Indoor bowling facilities
- Amusement arcades and casinos
- Funfairs – both static and travelling
- It is hoped that the number of people allowed to attend weddings will be able to be increased from September 14.
Reopening leisure centres and pools 'crucially important' to High Life Highland financial security
