Better Rainbow Leisure, run on behalf of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, has announced its plans for a phased reopening from 25 July 2020. 

Following COVID Secure guidance, anyone wishing to use the facilities will need to pre-book a one hour time slot via the Better app or website. 

In the centre, signage and floor markings will assist with one-way access and social distancing. Equipment within gym areas will be reduced to ensure that 2 metres social distancing between users is maintained, while some fitness classes will be relocated to sports halls. 

Swim customers are requested to arrive 'beach ready' with their costume on under their clothes to save time and reduce pressure on change areas. Gym and studio customers will be encouraged to bring their own drinking water – and shower and change at home. 

The play park, general bookings and spa will be re-launched after the initial phase of re-opening.

Staff will be adopting a new, enhanced cleaning regime, while customers will be asked to wipe down the equipment that they have used. Hand sanitiser will be available throughout leisure centre buildings. 

All Better members will be given access to all Better facilities UK wide for the foreseeable future. 

They will also be given the option to continue to freeze their memberships as will any members who don’t feel confident returning to the centres initially or who might have health conditions that put them at higher risk of infection from COVID-19. 

David Hughes Partnership Manager, Better said: 

“After nearly four months of lockdown, we are delighted to finally have the green light for reopening our leisure facilities in a phased fashion. 

“Keeping people safe is now a shared responsibility and as a leisure operator we will be working in partnership with customers to ensure they have complete confidence when they return.  

“We’ll be ensuring enhanced sanitisation of equipment and public areas. Customers can help by downloading our Better app, pre-booking their slot and arriving on time and dressed for their activity. 

“The changes we are making will ensure we can maintain social distancing in centre and provide the best possible experience for customers. 

“We recognise that some people may be worried about returning to their local leisure facilities, so we will continue to offer free access to online fitness and exercises classes via our Better app.” 

“We look forward to seeing you soon.” 

Councillor Barry Nash, Chair of the council’s Community and Wellbeing Committee said: 

“It is thanks to everyone who followed official guidance that we’ve reached this positive milestone in our fight against the coronavirus pandemic and bringing local services back into operation. 

“Reopening the Rainbow Centre will be a very positive step, especially for those people who have been missing their regular indoor exercise. 

“We have confidence in the GLL team in creating a safe and positive environment for our returning leisure centre customers and that they are putting the necessary arrangements into place in the shortest possible time frame.” 

Information about the reopening will be published through the Rainbow Centre’s website:  https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/epsom-and-ewell/rainbow-leisure-centre