A town's pool is set to reopen for the first time in almost five months next week.

The Hythe pool will be running with strict new rules after it was closed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic in March.

The South Road facility will be opening on Monday, but sessions need to be booked in advance during opening hours.

The pool will also be operating a limit timetable to allow for extra cleaning while limits are being introduced on time allowed in changing rooms.

Swimmers will be asked to arrive wearing their swimming costume underneath their clothes to speed up changing and limit exposure.

Other rules, which will be on display at the facility, will see face masks worn in the reception area and changing rooms, and directional markings put in across the facility.

Spectators will not be allowed, while neither hairdryers or lockers will be in use, with bags allowed to be left poolside.

"This is another positive step towards normality"

While many will no doubt be pleased that the pool is opening, anyone hoping to use the gym facilities will be left disappointed as neither the cardio gym or teaching pool are available for use.

Cllr Jenny Hollingsbee, F&HDC Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “I know how frustrating the pool closure has been for keen swimmers, but ensuring the safety of our residents and staff is our key priority.

“We are confident the appropriate measures are in place to ensure people can keep healthy and have fun when returning to the waters.

“While the swimming experience will be quite different, we ask people to continue to be patient and kind to our staff as they get used to a new way of working.

“This is another positive step towards normality following the successful reopening of the district’s high streets, East Cliff Sports and play areas under our responsibility.”

To book a session, call 01303 269 177, and for more information visit folkestone-hythe.gov.uk/sports-and-leisure/hythe-pool.

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