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Swimming Pools Could Open Again In July With Social Distancing Measures

Swimming Pools Could Open Again In July With Social Distancing Measures

It's going to be weird, but it's necessary

Tom Wood

Tom Wood

Swimming pools in the UK could be set to reopen next month, but - like so many other things - it's likely that the experience is going to be somewhat different to how it was before.

That might mean that you've got to show up to the pool with your togs on, and leave without properly drying off.

Could be a bit awkward if you're travelling on the bus, but desperate times call for desperate measures, right?

Obviously, there are going to be social distancing rules in place that will mean wider lanes and no lockers used - but if you really want to swim, this is how it's going to have to be.

Also, kids just 'playing around' could be banned from the pools as well. Lessons might still go on ahead, but kids just battering around the facility like back in the old days won't be happening again soon.

PA

The plan for pools to safely reopen will be published on 25 June, according to The Sunday Times.

Swim England chief executive Jane Nickerson said: "In the early days, it may be that you are encouraged not to use the changing rooms.

"What we're suggesting is going 'beach ready'. Some pools might ask you just to put on a towelling robe and - let's hope you're not on a bus, you're in a car - travel home like that."

So, as well as that, we could see swimmers getting changed by the side of the pool, and valuables being kept in bags, that are then put inside lockers.

The kids will be banned because of problems with social distancing. However, she added: "It doesn't mean that we couldn't do... lessons, or some club and community activity - as long as they are programmed and maintaining a distance."

PA

Social distancing doesn't end under the water, either. The normal 25 metre pool will be broken up into three lanes rather than six, and only 30 people will be allowed into the pool.

Nickerson continued: "It will be a much stricter regime...not standing at the end, but to keep swimming - and to keep five metres from the person in front of you.

"We are saying if you do need to stop for a rest, or catch your breath, just make sure you get to the edge of the lane, to allow others to turn, and keep your head away, face the wall."

With people hopefully to get back into the pools, gyms, and pubs - let's not forget the pubs - at some point in July, we're just going to have to see what the world looks like as it emerges from this pandemic.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: SPORT, UK News, Interesting, Weird