Leisure centres get ready for reopening

Staff at leisure centres across County Durham have been working hard to prepare sites for re-opening to the public from today.

They will initially open with gym, swim and outdoor fitness facilities available, while the indoor fitness class programme is expected to restart later in May as outlined in the Government’s easing of Covid-19 restrictions roadmap.

Additional outdoor fitness classes, including bootcamps, have been added to the programme at some leisure centres.

Changes to ensure the safety of customers and staff at the centres in relation to coronavirus include extra staff training, limited numbers to implement social distancing and the use of face coverings. Rigorous cleaning of sites will continue.

All activities must be pre-booked in advance by going to www.durham.gov. uk/leisureAlison Clark, Durham County Council’s head of culture, sport and tourism, said: “Being active is really important to our mental and physical wellbeing and we can’t wait to open our doors.

“Don’t worry if you haven’t been as active during lockdown, we’re here to help you build up your activity levels no matter where you are starting from.

“Our gym staff have also had specialist training on the effects of long Covid and are able to support your recovery.”

For those who would prefer to keep active at home, the Mywellness app will continue to be free to use while the leisure centres are operating a reduced programme.