Incremental return to sport and leisure

Orkney Islands Councils Sport and Leisure Service welcomes the Scottish Governments announcement that sport facilities can begin to re-open from today - 31 August.

Garry Burton, Sport and Leisure Manager said: “We are delighted to have a date when we can begin to re-open our sport facilities. There continues to be substantial amount of work being undertaken behind the scenes with sportscotland and other partners to progress plans that ensure our facilities open and operate safely.

"We look forward to welcoming customers back into our facilities to support mental and physical wellbeing."

Opening dates will be as follows:

14 September:

• Stromness Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre.
• KGS Sports Centre.

15 September:

• Hope Healthy Living Centre.
• Stromness Community Centre and Town Hall.
• Kirkwall Community Centre and Town Hall.

16 September:

• Dounby Centre.

Mr Burton added: “Following positive meetings with isles schools head teachers it has been agreed that there will be a phased opening of healthy living centres throughout weeks commencing 21 and 28 September, with specific dates being announced in the coming weeks. News about the reopening of the Isles swimming pools will follow after further discussions with Head Teachers and Community Associations.

“Ongoing physical distancing guidance means that some facilities cannot open straight away, or they will be operating in new ways to ensure guidance is followed. The frequency of cleaning will be increased and the numbers of people entering facilities at any one time will be restricted. Advanced booking for all Sport and Leisure facilities and services will be required, please check before visiting."

Bookings for Sport and Leisure facilities and activities will open on 7 September. To make a booking please either telephone or email the facility direct or contact the Sport and Leisure service on 01856 873535 leisure.culture@orkney.gov.uk.