Fermanagh and Omagh District Council are to reopen indoor facilities at the Bawnacre Centre, Irvinestown and Castle Park Leisure Centre, Lisnaskea from the start of September.

In line with the Northern Ireland Executive’s Pathway to Recovery programme, and as part of a programme for the phased return of the delivery of services at its leisure facilities the Council has confirmed that some indoor facilities, including fitness suites, at Bawnacre Centre Irvinestown and Castle Park Centre Lisnaskea will reopen to the public on Tuesday, September 1.

The latest phase follows on from the reopening of the 3G and grass pitches and play parks across the district, the tennis courts at the Bawnacre Centre, Irvinestown, the running track at both Fermanagh Lakeland Forum and Omagh Leisure Complex and more latterly the reopening of fitness suites and the resumption of fitness classes at Fermanagh Lakeland Forum and Omagh Leisure Centre in the last number of weeks.

Speaking about the reopening of the fitness suites, Councillor Chris Smyth, Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, said: “As the Council has moved to gradually reopen its leisure facilities, it has at all times considered the Health and Safety both of the staff and the users as its overriding priority. I am delighted that we have made such significant progress in such a relatively short time given the significant challenges facing the staff in getting to this point. I would commend the staff on their efforts thus far. The Council is pleased that it is now able to safely reopen its indoor facilities at Bawnacre Centre, Irvinestown and Castle Park Lisnaskea and both facilities can now continue to meet the leisure demands of the people of their respective areas.”

Fitness suite places must be pre-booked and bookings can be made online or by telephone. Payment must be made at time of booking and centre staff will be available to ensure the safe operation of the fitness suites based on leisure industry expertise and government guidance. At Bawnacre the Fitness Suite has been re located downstairs to the Minor Hall. The suites have already been professionally cleaned and equipment is placed to ensure social distancing protocol can be observed and ventilation has been improved. Changing and shower facilities are not yet open, however toilets facilities will be available.

Fitness and other classes at both Centres will commence in September in the large sports halls on a phased and gradual basis and further details will be provided on the Council website and on the venues Facebook pages. Details will also be provided shortly regarding block bookings.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council will continue to be guided by advice from the Northern Ireland Executive and the Public Health Agency with regard to future plans for activities.