Antrim and Newtownabbey spa facilities closure update at council

Councillors have been told in an officer’s report that due to the “challenges of opening these facilities safely”, it is proposed that they stay shut but will be kept under review.

The council’s leisure centres closed on March 19 in line with government guidance in relation to the coronavirus pandemic.

Since restrictions started to ease following lockdown, a series of recovery plans have been implemented by the local authority with the phased reopening of leisure services.

The council’s golf courses and driving ranges reopened first followed by bowling greens, Antrim Stadium, 3G pitches, fitness suites and fitness classes, swimming pools, sports halls and some grass pitches.

Water slides have also reopened and it is proposed that swimming lessons in the borough will resume from mid-October at Antrim Forum, Valley and Sixmile Leisure Centres.

Ballyearl Leisure Centre remains closed due to “challenges of effectively maintaining social distancing within the building”, although access to the golf course and driving range is available.

Last year, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council announced an investment of £0.5m in the modernisation and extension of the health suite at the Valley Leisure Centre in Newtownabbey.

This included replacement of the jacuzzi, steam room and sauna with the addition of new ventilation, heated loungers and a monsoon shower.

Meanwhile, access to pools in Mid and East Antrim will be made available firstly to swimming clubs in the borough when leisure centres reopen.

The leisure centres have been closed since the start of lockdown in March.

Gyms and fitness facilities are not expected to commence reopening until mid-September.

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter

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