Swimmers should arrive 'beach ready' at south London lidos

People have been flocking to south London parks, pools and pitches in their thousands this week, causing some concern among politicians and health experts.

But there are a few bits of new advice and guidance being introduced at newly reopened facilities.

All outdoor adventure play centres have opened, sports centres are hosting outdoor athletics and fitness classes, and outdoor football has also restarted.

David Madden Photography

But one new rule being introduced at Charlton Lido means swimmers are being asked to arrive 'beach ready'.

A number of enticing outdoor pools and lidos have reopened this week in south London, and a shortlist of spots can be found here.

Lidos across south London have reopened

In an effort to save time, help reduce pressure on changing areas and overall lower the Covid risk, swimmers should turn up at pools and lidos with their costume on under their clothes.

People using fitness classes and facilities are now also encouraged to shower and change at home to help lower the risk of infection.

As usual, hand sanitiser will be available at all outdoor leisure centre facilities, and staff will be carrying out an enhanced cleaning regime on all equipment available.

Greenwich Council say they have been working with Better, the social enterprise operating leisure facilities in the borough, to plan the safe reopening of outdoor facilities.

Charlton Lido welcomes back swimmers after lockdown

Richard Gallagher, Better’s Partnership Manager in Greenwich said: “We can’t wait to welcome customers back to our outdoor facilities again.

"With swimming, fitness classes, football, athletics and adventure play all available at various locations across the borough, there will be plenty of options available for residents to begin getting active again after lockdown.

"And for those not quite ready yet, our fantastic Better at Home digital membership remains free to all Royal Greenwich residents.”