AN Oxford leisure centre is due to reopen its gym at the start of next week.

Gym and group exercise facilities at Leys Pools and Leisure Centre on Pegasus Road, Blackbird Leys will be re-opening on Monday, October 5.

Ferry Leisure Centre has already reopened its pools and gym, and Oxford City Council and its contractor Fusion which runs the leisure centres has said the Blackbird Leys reopening will help more of the city's residents get access to leisure facilities.

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Both centres will be operating in line with new government guidelines and those planning to visit will be required to book and pay online, minimising contact required at the centre and allowing for the track and trace process to be implemented.

Leisure centre users will be asked to arrive ready to work out, ready to go.

Users will be able to check in with the new NHS COVID-19 app or leave their details for track and trace

New cleaning regimes and hand sanitser in the gym will keep equipment regularly cleaned to minimise risks

Temporary opening hours will alternate on a two week timetable.

  • Week one opening will be as follows: Mon/Wed/Fri: 7am – 3pm; Tues/Thurs: 12pm – 8pm; Sat and Sun: 8am – 2pm.
  • Week two: Mon/Wed/Fri: 12pm – 8pm; Tues/Thurs: 7am – 3pm; Sat and Sun: 8am – 2pm.

Linda Smith, city council cabinet member for parks and leisure, said: “I know many local residents and clubs have been waiting for the Leys Leisure Centre to open and I’d like to thank them for their patience."

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She added: "The limited re-opening on October 5 is another step forward on the phased re-start of our leisure services and the council will be working hard with Fusion Lifestyle to make further progress, balancing the new costs of operating under current regulations with the demand for leisure services and the importance of making it easy and affordable for Oxford residents to get active.”

Bookings can be made up to seven days in advance by downloading the Fusion Lifestyle app or by visiting the centre website to register and use the booking facility.