Welsh Government confirms relaxation of certain coronavirus restrictions

Welsh Government has confirmed changes to the coronavirus restrictions in Wales which will allow gyms and leisure centres to reopen and two households to form an exclusive bubble.

In full, the lifting of certain restrictions means that from Monday 3 May:

• Gyms, fitness facilities, leisure centres, spas and swimming pools can reopen
• Extended households will be possible, allowing two households to come together to form an exclusive bubble who can meet and have contact indoors
• Organised children’s indoor activities can recommence, such as sporting, cultural and wider recreational groups and clubs. It also includes parent and baby/toddler groups. Children’s birthday parties, or wider gatherings of families and friends in private homes are still not allowed
• Organised indoor activities for adults can also recommence for up to 15 people, including, exercise classes and swimming lessons
• Community centres can reopen

This means Wales will have completed the move to Alert Level 3 by 3 May.

Last week, the First Minister Mark Drakeford announced the potential further easing of the rules if the public health condition continued to improve.

Earlier today, Mr Drakeford said: “The public health situation continues to improve and our vaccination programme remains a success. Thanks to the efforts of people across Wales, we are in a position to further ease the restrictions, in the way we have previously signalled, to allow more elements of normal life to return.

“However, the virus has not gone away. We all still need to take those vitally important steps, that we are now all so familiar with, to protect ourselves and each other from this dreadful virus – by self-isolating if we have symptoms, by taking up the offer of a Covid vaccine, washing our hands regularly, wearing a face covering in enclosed public spaces, following social distancing rules, limiting the number of people we meet socially outdoors, and only meeting with those we live with indoors.

“By working together, by following these rules, the quicker we will return to normality. Together, we will continue to keep Wales safe.”

With the public health situation continuing to improve and the ongoing roll-out of the vaccination programme, the lifting of these restrictions is very welcome.

As we return to a more normal way of life, it’s important to remain alert and continue to follow the rules around social distancing, washing hands and wearing a face covering where required.

Bridgend County Borough Council leader Huw David

Within Bridgend county borough, Halo leisure centres will reopen on Monday with public swimming and gym facilities available as well as indoor group exercises for adults.

Gymnastics and swimming lessons for children will restart on the week commencing 10 May. However, the pool at Bridgend Life Centre will remain closed for the next few weeks due to a refurbishment of the changing rooms.

The next review of the coronavirus restrictions is due by 13 May.  For more details please visit the Welsh Government website.