Wiltshire Council run leisure centres won't return to full capacity yet
Local authority says it's taking a 'cautious approach' to keep staff and visitors safe
Last updated 19th Jul 2021
Gradual and cautious changes, rather than everthing returning to normal are being undertaken at Wiltshire Council run leisure centres and libraries aross the county.
Wearing facemasks when inside the faciities are encouraged and screens will remain in place on reception desks.
That's to help protect people who haven't been vaccinated or are particularly vulnerable.
LEISURE CENTRES
We're being asked to respect other people's space.
Whilst capacity at sessions, notably group exercise clases have increased it's not to the maximum so there will still be more space than normal.
More gym equipment has been brought back into use and any zoning has been removed. Cardio equipment, where possible, will be adjusted to encourage 1m social distancing.
Health suites and saunas have been made available for use again, where feasible, as have changing rooms and showers.
Some facilities may have maximum advised capacities in place, which people are encouraged to respect.
SWIMMING
Children should continue to arrive for their Swim School lesson dressed ready to swim until further notice; changing facilities will be available but arriving beach ready will encourage social distancing.
Swimming lane and session capacities have also increased slightly, but still not to the maximum level.
For full details of any other changes people are recommended to visit the leisure pages on the Wiltshire Council website www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure-covid19
LIBRARIES
Most of the council's libraries recently reopened for browsing and computer use (computers don't need to be booked, but is recommended to guarantee access)
There's no longer a need to quaranine books and many libraries have extended their hours.
Visitors to the council's libraries are being asked to continue to socially distance while inside, and people are encouraged to wear face coverings.
Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Libraries, said:
"It's important to remember that the pandemic isn't over, and we all still have a responsibility to look out for one another and keep each other safe."
"So while we're pleased to ease on some measures in our leisure, library and history centre buildings, the safety of our staff and residents is still of the utmost importance and we ask that everyone respects the measures we have in place."
ADVICE
COVID-19 case rates continue to rise in the county and people are encouraged to continue to wear face coverings in enclosed and crowded spaces, as that helps keep people safe, particularly those who are not double vaccinated.
People should also continue to wash or sanitise their hands regularly and self-isolate and get tested if they display any of the COVID-19 symptoms.
More information about the Government's guidance to how to stay safe and help prevent the spread from 19 July can be found here.