Council swimming pools to begin a phased reopening from Friday

The swimming pool facilities initially reopening are Banbridge Leisure Centre, Cascades Leisure Complex and Orchard Leisure Centre.

In this initial reopening phase, individual lane swimming only will be available for those aged 16 and over. Recreational swimming, including family swimming sessions, will not be available, however, additional updates will be communicated via social media and local press as the phased reopening progresses.

Timetables will vary across each location and users are advised to visit www.getactiveabc.com/book for up to date

information and for details on how to book sessions.

Due to Covid-19, the user experience will be slightly different, incorporating new safety measures to provide safe, but friendly, leisure environments for everyone to enjoy.

Sauna, steam rooms and spa pools will not be available at this time until further notice.

Council has pointed out that there are four simple steps to remember when using any leisure facility.

Step One: Book in advance - All sessions must be pre-booked online in advance via www.getactiveabc.com/book or by telephoning the relevant facility.

Step Two: Access to facilities has changed - Changing rooms will be available for swimmers, however, showers are not permitted at this time; until showering is available in centres, Council recommends that all swimmers shower at home soon after their swim, users are advised to bring their own drinking water as water fountains will remain out of use, strict hygiene and social distancing rules will be in place with a one-hour time limit in the swimming pool.

Step Three: Personal responsibilities - respect the social distancing floor markers when queuing, use the hand sanitiser provided on entry and when leaving each facility and exercise

area, do not attend any facility if you are feeling unwell or displaying any symptoms of Covid-19, or if you are in a period of self-isolation.

Step Four: The customer experience may look and feel a little different than usual, but as always, staff will be there to guide customers.

To book a swim session, even if you don’t have a leisure membership, visit www.getactiveabc.com/book.

Swim sessions are being offered at a reduced cost of £2.35 per session for the month of August.

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