Tendring's leisure centres look ahead to next lockdown easing
They are hoping to re-open in two weeks
Lockdown eased further this morning - but leisure centres in Tendring are already looking ahead to the 12th of April.
The Council say preparations are underway for gym sessions, swimming lessons and some club activities can restart.
From 29 March outdoor grass sports pitches are available to book in line with the requirements of each sport's national body.
In keeping with the gradual relaxation of restrictions, the re-opening of further leisure services is subject to the roadmap 'not before' dates and may change depending on the situation.
Tendring District Council's (TDC) leisure centres are set to re-open from 12 April, offering gym sessions, lane and family swimming plus junior swim lessons, and youth or disabled club activities. Racket sports are also permitted for single households or bubbles, with the exception of squash.
Subject to the roadmap, from 17 May fitness classes will resume as will adult swim lessons, and the flume at Walton-on-the-Naze Lifestyles can be used again.
Racket sports are expected to be open under the rule of six, except squash - where national body guidance is awaited.
Kieran Charles, TDC Sports Facilities and Business Manager, said the leisure team could not wait to get people back in the centres:
"It has been a very strange time for our staff, particularly while carrying out cleaning and building checks on empty pools and sports halls.
"Hopefully we will be able to re-open soon, and all of our Covid-secure measures remain in place - but please do check the signage in case of any changes made. In particular, I'd like to remind leisure centre users that sessions must be booked in advance, and of the need to wear a mask unless you are exercising.
"Until we can re-open our online fitness classes are continuing, which I know have been popular with many people looking to keep fit during lockdown."
Existing leisure memberships will be free for April and May, as the January payment taken before lockdown was introduced will cover the costs.
From June, memberships will be at 75% rate. Annual memberships have been extended to account for the months of closure.
What are the next steps in easing the lockdown?
12th April: shops, hairdressers, nail salons, libraries, outdoor attractions and outdoor hospitality venues
From 12th April at the earliest, shops, hairdressers, nail salons, libraries, outdoor attractions, including zoos, and outdoor hospitality venues will be permitted to reopen.
12th April: Beer gardens reopen
From 12th April, outdoor beer gardens will also be allowed to reopen.
12th April: Gyms reopen
Gyms are expected to reopen from 12th April.
17th May: Indoor mixing
From 17th May at earliest, two households or groups of up to six people can mix indoors and limited crowds will be allowed to return to sporting events. Children's play areas will be opened alongside hotels, and limited groups will be allowed in theatres.
17th May: Possible foreign travel
Foreign travel may be permitted from 17th May.
17th May: Indoor hospitality
Indoor hospitality including pubs and restaurants could reopen from 17th May.
21st June: Nightclubs could reopen
From 21st June all remaining restrictions on social distancing could be lifted, and larger events may be allowed to resume, including theatres. Nightclubs may also be allowed to reopen.
21st June: Bigger weddings
Bigger wedding celebrations may be permitted from 21st June.