Locks come off libraries and leisure centres
COUNCIL EMERGES CAUTIOUSLY INTO TIER 3 STATUS
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A COUNCIL is cautiously re-opening some of its leisure centres and libraries as West Yorkshire moves out of national lockdown and into the high level Tier 3 Covid-19 restrictions.
In line with government guidance to keep people safe, Calderdale Council had closed its sports facilities and libraries when national restrictions started on November 5, with the main Central Library in Halifax remaining open for its “click and collect” service only.
In Tier 3 (very high alert level), leisure and sports facilities can open, but group exercise classes, including fitness and dance, should not go ahead, said Cabinet member for Public Services and Communities, Coun Jenny Lynn (Lab, Park).
She said: “We’re pleased to be able to start reopening our sports centres and libraries.
“We know how much people value these services and we’re committed to helping people stay active and emotionally well. However,
we are taking a careful and gradual approach to reopening services, as the Covid-19 rate is still too high in Calderdale.
“Our services remain under regular review and we will keep people updated. Sports and libraries staff who have been redeployed are doing a fantastic job supporting our response to the pandemic.
“They have been using their skills to help with work such as engagement with communities and enforcement,” she said.
Brighouse Pool and Fitness Centre and Todmorden Sports Centre reopened yesterday with safety measures to protect customers and staff.
For example, the number of people allowed in the buildings is limited via a booking system to enable social distancing, hand sanitiser is available throughout and additional cleaning is taking place.
North Bridge Leisure Centre, Halifax, remains closed until further notice, as it continues to be used as an important distribution centre during the pandemic.
Sowerby Bridge Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre is currently closed whilst the pool tiles undergo essential repairs, and will reopen as soon as the work is complete, said Coun Lynn.
Central Library has reopened on Wednesday and is continuing its select and collect service, with safety measures, limited browsing of stock and free access to computers through appointments to help reduce digital exclusion.
The hub libraries in Brighouse, Hebden Bridge, King Cross, Sowerby Bridge and Todmorden will reopen by January 2021 and the other libraries remain closed until further notice, said Coun Lynn.