Winchester leisure centres back petition to keep gyms open

River Park Leisure Centre and Meadowside Leisure Centre in Whiteley managed by Everyone Active, have again been forced to close.

In a letter from Everyone Active’s managing director, David Bibby, concerns were raised about the tougher effect on the public this time round, with shorter hours of sunlight and colder weather affecting mental health and the motivation for people to exercise outdoors.

Following the reopening of leisure facilities in July, Everyone Active, like other providers, implemented strict operational measures to ensure safety across gym, swimming, group exercise and activities to protect both customers and colleagues.

This included online booking systems to manage capacity at its centres and rigorous cleaning regimes, which it believes contributes to the low transmission rate reported across UK gyms.

However, these efforts have been met with a news of a month’s closure rather than recognition of the statistical data which reinforces the safe use of leisure centres.

Stuart Urquhart, Everyone Active’s contract manager, added: “This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone. Our centres in Winchester have an important part to play in promoting and supporting the health and wellbeing of the local community during these challenging times.

“We are urging our members to get behind us and to support their local centre by signing the petition to encourage the Government to keep gyms open here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/333869

“We’re so proud of all our colleagues for their hard work and dedication to providing a safe environment for our customers and can’t wait to reopen our doors once again.”

To read Everyone Active’s Managing Director, David Bibby’s letter in full, visit: https://www.everyoneactive.com/news/our-manager-director-is-calling-on-your-support/

For more information on Everyone Active, visit: www.everyoneactive.com