Argyll and Bute swimming pools and gyms to reopen next week

Swimming pools across Argyll and Bute will reopen on Monday – but only members will be able to access them for the first month.

Live Argyll has confirmed that the facilities will be available for lane swimming only, with advanced booking required.

Opening hours will be restricted and the pools will be open on a members-only basis for the first four weeks of opening.

Gyms will also reopen on a members-only basis on the same day, with new layouts to ensure physical distancing.

The indicative date for such facilities in Scotland to reopen had been September 14, but this was brought forward by the Scottish Government last Thursday.

Live Argyll has also published a brief update on other elements of its gradual return to normal service as lockdown restrictions ease.

The trust said: “We were delighted to receive the news that we are able to open our leisure facilities on August 31.

“We have started re-introducing a small number of services. Our outdoor pitches are now available for hire to organised children’s and adults groups and our Active Schools team have returned to work to prepare for the start of the new school term to support the health and well-being of our pupils.

“We are grateful to sportscotland for their continued financial support of the Active Schools programme.

“Our library book return service is now operating at eight libraries and our Click and Collect service will launch on September 14.

“We are continuing to review the sector guidance for our community facilities including indoor school lets, halls, soft play and community centres. Further announcements will made following Scottish Government guidelines.”

Phase two for the re-opening of leisure facilities is pencilled in for September 28, with increased opening hours and fitness classes lined up.

Anybody using a swimming pool during phase one must be aged at least eight and be able to swim at least two lengths.

Events and community venues are not planned to reopen until at least September 14, a date which remains subject to Scottish Government guidance.