Lincoln leisure centres to 'partially reopen'

Outdoor facilities at Yarborough and Birchwood leisure centres will begin to reopen from Saturday

Two Lincoln leisure centres that closed suddenly last week are to partially reopen.

Active Nation, a registered charity, ceased trading and announced the closure of the Yarborough and Birchwood centres on 2 April.

On Thursday evening, City of Lincoln Council said outdoor facilities at both centres would reopen on a "phased basis" from Saturday.

Simon Walters, from the authority, said: "We understand how important these leisure facilities are to our local communities and share everyone's concern regarding the sudden closures."

Mr Walters said the council had worked with Lincoln City Foundation to facilitate the reopenings.

He said it was "a positive first step towards a full reopening of the centres", adding the council is "committed to finding an interim operator", which would allow the reopening of both the indoor facilities and "full suite of outdoor facilities".

"We'd like to thank our residents and local clubs for their patience and understanding, and the Foundation for stepping up at such a difficult time," said Mr Walters.

The foundation will coordinate all bookings, keyholding, facilities management and maintenance on behalf of the council, said the authority.

City of Lincoln Council said it has repossessed its buildings at Yarborough Leisure Centre and Birchwood Leisure Centre, meaning essential maintenance can be carried out.

Martin Hickerton, the foundation's chief executive, said: "We feel a real sense of pride in our city and know what an important role physical activity plays in the lives of many of its residents.

"We're pleased to work with the City of Lincoln Council on this step in the right direction."

Christopher Roe, chairman of football club North Lindum Hawks, welcomed the move.

He said: "Our kids can't wait to get back on the 3G pitches this weekend. It's essential that young people have access to these types of facilities for their health and well-being."

The council said it is still awaiting confirmation of an appointed administrator or liquidator for Active Nation.

Further guidance will be provided for customers with pre-paid memberships to explore the possibility of reclaiming their payment, it said.

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