LEISURE staff in East Renfrewshire are gearing up to reopen gyms and swimming pools as lockdown is eased...but those who are keen to take the plunge or enjoy a workout might have to wait another six weeks.

The Scottish Government has set Monday, September 14, as the indicative date for the long-awaited reopening of gyms, pools and indoor soft play centres.

However, this is due to be reviewed within two weeks, in the hope that further progress in the fight against coronavirus will mean an earlier date can be agreed.

In the meantime, staff at East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure (ERCL) are making sure its venues will be ready to welcome customers again as soon as Holyrood gives the green light.

It said it is looking forward to opening the doors at its venues after months of lockdown and will confirm details on its social media pages and website once these have been decided.

A spokesperson for ERCL told the Barrhead News: “We are committed to supporting our local community in keeping fit and healthy.

“Our new outdoor fitness classes at Barrhead Foundry and Eastwood High Sports Centre are proving extremely popular and, from August 10, we are increasing the number of outdoor fitness classes we offer each week.

“These classes will run seven days a week and include brand new junior sessions for under-18s.

“We also continue to offer free, live online fitness classes which are available on our Facebook page.”

Bosses at ERCL said staff have been working “extremely hard” behind the scenes in preparation for its venues reopening.

All employees are being given coronavirus safety training, focused on helping and supporting fitness members, prior to reopening.

The spokesperson added: “The safety and wellbeing of our customers and staff is our priority and social distancing and cleanliness measures will be in place across all of our venues and facilities when we reopen.

“We want to thank all of our customers and staff for their continued support and patience during this time and we look forward to seeing everyone again soon.”

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