Lockdown easing sees Christchurch gyms, cafés and libraries spring back to life

TOURISM and council facilities in the BCP area have thrown open their doors amid the easing of lockdown restrictions.

Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre in Christchurch and the Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre are among the facilities that have got back into the swing of things, as has the café at Highcliffe Castle - although the castle itself will not reopen until step 3 of the exit plan.

Christchurch Library has also reopened, while the Highcliffe and Tuckton facilities get back to business on 19th April, offering browsing and borrowing in person, bookable public computers and study tables.

Matti Raudsepp, BCP Council director of customer and business delivery, said: "We are delighted to be opening up more services as lockdown restrictions begin to ease. All venues that reopen will have strict COVID-safe procedures in place and we would ask everyone accessing them to follow the rules, to help keep visitors and staff safe.

"As we begin to enjoy access to more services again, please remember hands-face-space: keep hands regularly cleaned, wear a mask whenever you should and follow the rules on social distancing. People across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have sacrificed a huge amount over recent months to stop the spread of COVID-19, so please help us to keep our rates low locally and take this next step safely."

As more services open up, the council's environmental health and trading standards teams will be out offering support and guidance to businesses as they reopen on issues such as new test and trace requirements.

Up to date information on BCP Council services is available at https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID-19/Service-changes-and-updates/Service-changes-and-updates.aspx