Lonsdale Plans To Re-Open City Pools

The charitable trust which manages two swimming pools in the city is gearing up to re-open both facilities in early September.

Lonsdale Swimming & Sports Trust manages Gayton Pool in Littleover on behalf of Derby City Council and also runs Lonsdale Pool in Mickleover, which it is currently hoping to replace with a new facility nearby.

Both have remained closed to finalise Covid-safe procedures and plan to re-open in early September.

Trust chair Ian Cotter explained: “Although we were given the green light to open swimming pools from July 25, a great deal of work has had to be done to train staff and ensure both pools were Covid-safe with one way systems, safe social distancing and limited use of changing room facilities.

“We also needed to incorporate capacity for the boiler upgrade required at Lonsdale Pool which is an ageing facility that needs a great deal of upkeep.

“We are confident that everything will be in place for early September and look forward to welcoming back the schools, children and families, club and adult swimmers who have enjoyed both pools for many years.

“There will be a booking system in place which will also meet track and trace requirements and our goal is to make life as simple as possible for both staff and customers alike so that they can return to the water safely and responsibly.”

Before lockdown, the Trust employed 50 staff – including 19 teachers who handle lessons for more than 1,600 children and adults a week at a wide variety of sessions at the two pools.

For more information about lessons and public sessions, please visit www.lsst.org.uk

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