Family swimming returns to Clay Cross, Dronfield, Eckington sports centres

Families are looking forward to swimming in indoor pools again.

Managers at the centres, which are run by NE Derbyshire District Council, are expecting a big surge of interest when doors reopen on April 12.

Mark Rocca, manager at Dronfield Sports Centre, said: “We only take bookings eight days in advance but we’ve had enquiries via Facebook. Family swimming will be the most popular as slots are limited due to Covid restrictions.”

At Eckington Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre, manager Darren Ward said: “From previous lockdowns and the feedback we got from customers, they were absolutely desperate to return to the pool and gym, for a whole host of reasons, health, social aspects, mental wellbeing; customers now realise how important leisure facilities are to the whole family.”

Family swimming returns to Eckington from April 12, 2021.

Sharley Park Leisure Centre attracts around 5000 visits per week during its busiest times (January to March) and during lockdown has been used as a Covid vaccination centre. Manager Malcolm Reed said: “It’s been too long since we last had customers in the centre. As a country, we need to move forward out of lockdown and now we have the vaccine programme it seems this will now be possible.”

Under normal circumstances, Dronfield Sports Centre attracts 7,500 visitors each week. Mark Rocca said: “As a gym user myself I know I’ve missed it massively and we’ve had messages/comments from customers via social media saying they can’t wait to get back. Exercise plays a large part in many people’s lives for both health and wellbeing, social interaction is a big part of what we do.”

Eckington’s pool and fitness centre draws around 1500-2000 visits a week when restrictions are in place. Darren Ward said: “Staff are really looking forward to welcoming back its customers. We are preparing everything to ensure all our customers get the best experience when returning.”

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