SWIMMERS will start returning to Live Borders pools next week.

Galashiels Swimming Pool reopens on Tuesday (September 8), with other pools following later as part of a phased approach for the coming days and weeks.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon allowed pools and gyms to reopen from August 31.

In a statement issued last week, Live Borders CEO Ewan Jackson said he was “pleased” to share a schedule of dates for the reopening of facilities in the Borders.

The full list of dates can be accessed on the Live Borders website.

Live Borders has announced that, initially, the pool programmes will consist of lane swimming, club sessions and aquafit classes only.

The ‘Learn to Swim’ programmes will restart at a later date.

TriFitness facilities in Galashiels are scheduled to reopen on Wednesday (September 2). Due to social-distancing guidelines, the capacity will be cut to 30.

Opening hours at sites will be limited to ensure viability and to allow appropriate cleaning.

Hawick’s Teviotdale Leisure Centre was forced to postpone the reopening of its pool and gym due to the town’s coronavirus outbreak. The facilities, which had been due to reopen on Wednesday, are now scheduled to welcome back users next week.

Mr Jackson added: “We have been managing the pool water carefully during lockdown and are now awaiting the results of microbiological tests to verify the pool water is safe for swimming.

“We want our members and customers to have a safe and enjoyable experience when they return to our pools and gyms, and are putting measures in place such as pre-booking, enhanced cleaning, social distancing and greater spacing of equipment to facilitate this.”

Councillor Euan Jardine, Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for culture and sport, said: “I am delighted that a number of key Live Borders facilities are set to reopen.

“A phased approach is being taken to the reopening of these facilities, with the safety of the public and Live Borders staff the highest priority.

“I look forward to seeing more of our area’s sports facilities opening their doors again in the coming weeks and months.”