Four more Exeter leisure centres reopen for members

Published: 13 October 2020

Four of Exeter’s leisure centres have reopened for members to use.

Pyramids, Riverside (dry-side), Wonford and Northbrook Pool have been made COVID secure.

An Exeter City Council spokesman said: “We’ve been working really hard since we took over the management of our council owned centres in September and have robust social distancing and COVID secure measures in place.

“For the moment, we are opening in a phased approach to make sure that everyone is and feels safe enjoying our facilities. We are constantly reviewing our COVID secure measures and looking for safe ways to extend our services while adhering to government guidance.”

What to expect

The main things that are different about the centres will be that they will only be able to accommodate leisure centre members, individually, if they have booked a session in advance. There will be strict social distancing measures in place, which will be obvious once members enter the centres. Staff will be on hand to assist and advise.

Face coverings are not mandatory in leisure centres. The Council has done everything it can to minimise the risks and government guidance says that face coverings aren’t necessary when using the centre facilities and following social distancing guidelines.

“However, we recognise everyone’s right to feel secure, so you may see some of our leisure members and staff wearing face coverings out of personal choice,” added the spokesman.

Pool ready swimmers

Swimmers will have to arrive at their booked lane swimming session ‘pool ready’ with their swimming kit on under their clothes, which can then be stowed away in kit bags while swimming. Swimmers will then have to dry off at the poolside and pop a tracksuit or clothing on top of their swimming kit to leave the centre.

A Fresh start

“These changes may feel strange to start with,” added the spokesman, “but we are sure that all our members will support us in our COVID secure measures and in getting our centres going again, step by step.

“We’re working with staff and government advice to gradually extend what we can offer and to whom. More information on current available services and facilities can be found on our website and we’ll continue to update this along with our social media accounts as things change.

“For now, we look forward to welcoming our members back for a fresh start and the next step towards a thriving Exeter Leisure community.”