Second leisure centre to close in Tendring this month due to coronavirus

The centre has been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure after a staff member tested positive for Covid-19.

It's the second leisure centre in the district to close this month for that reason, after Walton-on-the-Naze Lifestyles was closed for a deep clean two weeks ago.

However, there is no suggestion of a link between both cases according to the council.

In a statement, TDC said: "Over the next few days we will endeavour to contact customers who have been at the centre, though there is no suggestion they will have been in close contact. They do not need to self-isolate unless they are displaying Covid-19 symptoms (a high temperature, new persistent cough, loss of taste or smell) or are contacted by a Track and Trace team and told to do so. A test should only be booked if displaying symptoms.

"All Covid-secure guidelines are in place both at the leisure centre which will ensure there is minimal risk to others as a result of this. This includes our track and trace data collection system – including booked sessions and the Covid-19 NHS App check-in – regular cleaning, staff protocols such as frequent hand washing and use of personal protective equipment (PPE)."

The authority is supporting the affected staff member at this time, and other staff who have been in close contact are also self-isolating.

TDC says they will release information on the reopening of Clacton Leisure Centre in the coming days, and hopes it will be as swift as the centre in Walton.