Residents welcomed back as Glass Mill and Downham Leisure Centres reopen

At Glass Mill, GLL have undertaken a programme of deep cleaning and refurbishment ahead of the reopening of the main swimming pool for lane swimming and the gym area as well as a group exercise programme.

In line with COVID-19 guidelines, there will be reduced opening hours, significantly reduced capacity with a one-way system in place as well as changes to the layout of gym equipment to allow customers to maintain social distancing whilst exercising. New spin bikes will be available in the large, airy foyer area to make the best use of space within the centre.

Customers will be asked to book in advance of attending the centre via the BETTER app or via better.org.uk. The centre will be open 7am – 9pm Monday to Friday and 7am – 3pm on weekends.

At Downham, the main pool has reopened with swimming lessons, gym, exercise programme recommencing with the sports hall open for badminton. Members will be able to make a booking by visiting 1life.co.uk or by calling 020 8461 9200 during opening hours. The centre will be open 7am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 8am – 3pm on weekends.

Councillor Andre Bourne, Cabinet member for Culture, Jobs and Skills said:

“This continues to be an extremely challenging time for the leisure sector but I’m pleased that, as London enters new restrictions we are able to begin to reopen our leisure centres. Staff have been working hard behind the scenes to make sure our centres are COVID compliant and I know lots of our residents will be keen to get back to using the gym and swim facilities.”

Helen Buttivant, Consultant in Public Health Lewisham Council said:

“The Council’s Public Health team has been working closely with GLL to ensure that our leisure centres are COVID secure, offering a safe environment for our residents to exercise.”

Mark Sesnan, CEO of GLL said:

"In partnership with Lewisham Council, we are looking forward to welcoming both staff and customers back to Lewisham's leisure centres. Keeping physically active is particularly important during this time and the benefits of exercise on our mental and physical health are well documented.”

Ladywell Arena has also reopened for athletics clubs this week.

Forest Hill Pools and Wavelengths are both currently planned to open on Monday 4 January 2021.

The Council’s new leisure partner, GLL, will continue the process of a full survey of each centre including The Bridge and Bellingham which require a more comprehensive assessment before they open.