After nearly five months, Visions Leisure Centre in Cumnock has reopened.

The centre opened on Monday, August 31 after gyms across the country received the go-ahead from the Scottish Government following the enforced closure due to coronavirus.

Anne Hendry, centre manager said: “Our staff have been on furlough since the end of March and we are delighted finally, to offer a soft opening to our members, currently within the gym.

“We’re working with governing bodies, East Ayrshire Council and our maintenance contractors to ensure the highest safety measures and practices are in place. The centre is certified as COVID compliant and ventilation equipment has been sanitised and serviced as per the Government’s leisure facilities guidance.

“Our next phase will reopen the swimming pool. A robust training programme will be delivered to staff over the next few weeks due to the many changes to the role of lifeguards. Our pool temperature is slowly returning to a satisfactory level and microbiological testing is to be carried out.

“We’re aiming to re-open the pool on October 5, but with reduced numbers and a booking system in place.