FACILITIES in Dunfermline and West Fife will welcome back customers next month.

Fife Sports and Leisure Trust (FSLT) has confirmed its date for re-opening following the latest announcement from the Scottish Government for the opening of gyms and leisure facilities.

The trust has welcomed the government’s indicative date of April 26 and has confirmed that it has all necessary health and safety protocols in place to welcome back customers.

Carnegie Leisure Centre, Duloch Leisure Centre and Pitreavie Athletics Centre, all in Dunfermline, will re-open, as will Dalgety Bay Leisure Centre.

Unlike the first lockdown, which saw the trust operate a phased re-opening programme, it will open doors on facilities on the same date.

The trust’s preparations come as it launched a video marking the work of staff and efforts of local people to stay active over the 12 months since the first lockdown was implemented in March last year.

As of last week, the trust has been able to re-introduce its popular outdoor fitness sessions as well as a walking programme for participants of its award-winning health and wellbeing programme supporting people living with long-term health conditions.

And, as of April 5, the trust will expand outdoor provision for 12 to 17-year-olds who can resume contact sports.

Emma Walker, chief executive for FSLT, said: "Our staff are eager to get back into centres and get ready to welcome customers. Teams are working hard behind the scenes to prepare buildings and are engaging with clubs and users who have regular bookings. In addition, communications have started with members of Leisure Active, participants of the health programme and Learn to Swim participants.

“Prior to the lockdown in December, we had enjoyed several months of service delivery and our health and safety measures were very robust – indeed we received consistently high satisfactions scores from customers who felt staff were well informed and that social distancing and hygiene measures were of a very high standard. We are confident that we are in a very good position to welcome customers back so that they can get active safely again.”

Judy Hamilton, convener of Fife Council's Community and Housing Services sub-committee, also commented: "Recognising the trust's experience in opening in a Covid-safe manner, it's really great to see the plans for the re-opening again of facilities. And, the huge amount of work going on to provide a safe and fun environment for us to enjoy sport, fitness and leisure.

"I would urge you to take advantage of the facilities and outdoor opportunities. Look out for the notices and social media, that will promote the centres, as and when they open and take every chance to enjoy them."

For further information on re-opening and 12-month lockdown video, visit: www.fifeleisure.org.uk