Coronavirus closes leisure centres and libraries

The rest of the Concourse remains closed

Leisure centres and libraries across Wirral are closing indefinitely due to coronavirus.

The swimming pool, gym and library at West Kirby Concourse and Hoylake Library will shut their doors at 5pm on Thursday 19 March.

It follows Government guidance for people to avoid non-essential contact with others, as part of measures to tackle COVID-19.

Swimming pool at West Kirby Concourse

The closure is part of Wirral Council’s wider preparations to focus resources and staff on the most critical services relied upon by residents.

All leisure centre classes and activities – including swimming and tennis lessons – are suspended until further notice, as are community-based Sports Development sessions and disability programme.

All direct debit payments for memberships will automatically be suspended from 21 March 2020 until sites re-open and annual subscriptions will be extended in line with the closure period. All memberships and subscriptions will be suspended during this time and reinstated when centres re-open.

All library events and activities are cancelled and residents are encouraged to sign up or join online, where they can access a wide range of e-books and e-audio for free. Borrowers who have books which are due back to the libraries during the closure period will have any fines waived.

Cllr Julie McManus, Cabinet member for Community Services, said: “Due to recent government guidance, these temporary arrangements are crucial to help in the next phase of the government’s plan to tackle the outbreak.

“We thank all our customers and members for their patience and understanding at this time.”

West Kirby Marine Lake and Municipal Golf Course will remain open for the time being for casual customers and members to use.