Reopening the sport and physical activity sector
CIMSPA responds to the government’s announcement on reopening the sport and physical activity sector
CIMSPA is disappointed that the Prime Minister did not today announce a date for the reopening of indoor gyms, sport and leisure facilities, but we remain committed to working closely with Sport England and DCMS to enable reopening to take place as soon as safely possible.
Working in partnership with others in the sector, CIMSPA has been in active consultation with Sport England and the government to create an operational framework that will allow indoor leisure facilities to safely reopen. We are encouraged by the Secretary of State’s indication that this may be possible by mid-July and we will continue to work hard to ensure that the government is able to agree to the framework and allow the sector to reopen.
Along with Sport England, CIMSPA will also push the government to continue providing the vital financial support that operators will need while their doors are forced to remain closed.
In addition to its significant economic value, our sector plays a central role in the nation’s physical and mental wellbeing, brings people together and makes a positive impact on public health in communities across the country, in particular those that need it most.
Tara Dillon, CEO, CIMSPA, said:
“It is disappointing that large parts of our sector can’t reopen at the same time as other parts of the economy, especially considering the public health benefits of sport and exercise. We share the frustration and concern that many will be feeling. It is, however, a balancing act and we must only reopen when it is fully safe to do so - both for customers and the workforce. We will continue to work closely with our partners and the government to enable this to happen as soon as possible, and to support everyone in the sector in the meantime.”
CIMSPA is working closely with our partners in the sector to give employers and the workforce the resources and support they need to feel confident about safely reopening facilities to the public, when the time comes.