Coronavirus: SpArC leisure centre in Bishop’s Castle to reopen on 24 August

SpArC leisure centre in Bishop’s Castle is set to reopen to residents on Monday 24 August 2020 with COVID-19 safety measures in place.

The reopening marks the start of the phased reopening of leisure centres across the county that are operated by Shropshire Council.

SpArC leisure centre has been closed since March 2020, and staff have worked tirelessly to improve the facilities and make it safe for the return of customers.

During the closure Shropshire Council, in partnership with the Save the SpArC Trust, have spent £58,000 on repairs, maintenance and new equipment.

The air conditioning and ventilation systems have also been upgraded to further increase safety.

SpArC

Peter Davis, Shropshire Council’s leisure services manager, said:

“We’re thrilled to be reopening SpArC leisure centre after five months of enforced closure. Staff have worked incredibly hard to put measures in place to create a safe environment for people to come and exercise.

“We took the opportunity during closure to make some improvements to the facility, and I’d like to thank the Save the SpArC Trust for their support and generosity in funding new equipment, which we’re sure our customers will make great use of.

“Our top priority is to keep everyone safe so COVID-19 safety measures have been out in place. Things will look a little different and will no doubt feel strange at first, but if we all follow the rules then we can all safely enjoy the facilities again.

“I’d like to thank everyone for their patience; we can’t wait to welcome people back.”

Jean Shirley of the Save the SpArC Trust, said:

“We know that all supporters of SpArC will be delighted at the news – particularly as it includes classes, gym and the pool – and will be ‘queuing’ to book. It will bring a bit of normal life, as well as increased fitness, to lots of people.”

When visiting customers will see increased signage, sanitiser stations and reduced numbers of people using the facilities at one time. Group exercise classes will be relocated to sports halls from small dance studios with social distancing areas clearly marked out.

One way systems and clear safety information signs will be put in place at all sites, including in changing rooms, onto poolside, into the pool and exiting the pool and building where appropriate.

Leisure centre staff are also being trained on COVID-19 safety measures and procedures so they are able to support customers when they need it.

Shropshire Council have signed up to the Fit Together campaign based on the Government’s guidelines for reopening, which were supported by fitness trade body ukactive and approved by independent scientific advisors.

For more information please call 01743 255071 or email leisure@shropshire.gov.uk

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