Hastings leisure centres to open next month

Freedom Leisure confirmed both its Summerfields Leisure Centre and Falaise Fitness Centre will be reopening.

On Monday, April 12, most activities will be available including gym, swimming, racket sports and children’s swimming lessons.

However, as per the government guidelines, group exercise classes will not be available but should return in May.

Ivan Horsfall-Turner, managing director of Freedom Leisure said: ”We look forward to seeing everyone using their local leisure centre again, and the teams can’t wait to get back to providing our local communities with opportunities for exercise, activity and the chance to socialise safely.”

Both leisure centres are operated in partnership with Hastings Borough Council.

Last week, the council received a £181,672 grant from the Government through the National Leisure Recovery Fund to help with the reopening of both leisure centres once restrictions were lifted.

A total of 266 local authorities across England were allocated a share of £100m to support the recovery of publicly owned leisure centres and gyms. Rother District Council received a £181,000 grant to help support the reopening of Bexhill Leisure Centre, Bexhill Leisure Pool and Rye Sports Centre.

Cllr Maya Evans, lead councillor for Natural Environment and Leisure, said: “Our local leisure centres are vital for our wellbeing by not only providing excellent facilities to help residents get active but also by organising fantastic sessions where you can socialise and meet new people.”

“We are pleased Hastings has been allocated £181,672 through the Government’s National Leisure Recovery Funds, it will contribute to the substantial shortfall amassed to keep Leisure Centres open in this town. This financial boost is a good contribution after such a long period of closure because of the COVID-19 pandemic, let’s hope the Government release more funding so that councils are not out of pocket for ensuring essential fitness facilities remain available for their residents.”

Mr Horsfall-Turner added: “The last year has been a significant challenge for the leisure industry and our role in providing the Hastings communities with access to health, fitness and wellbeing opportunities has never been more important. The funding secured with Hastings Borough Council will help us to reopen and get back to delivering a vital service to their residents and visitors.”