A LEISURE centre has announced its reopening date.

The King Alfred on Hove seafront will fling open its doors to fitness fanatics on Saturday, August 15.

The news comes more than four months after gyms were forced to close as the UK was plunged into lockdown to stop the spread of coronavirus. The date is almost two weeks after the Government’s designated day for the reopening of leisure centres, July 25.

The additional time has been used by owners Brighton and Hove City Council and operators Freedom Leisure to make changes which will allow visitors to use the site safely.

All facilities will reopen on August 15, except for the swimming pool which will become available from August 17.

Ivan Horsfall-Turner, managing director of Freedom Leisure, said: “We are working hard to make sure our centres are ready and waiting to welcome back the local community and we look forward to seeing everyone very soon.”

Pool sessions and group exercise classes will need to be pre-booked. Booking will be available for members five days in advance and one day in advance for non-members.

Councillor Marianna Ebel joint chairwoman of the Tourism, Equalities, Communities and Culture Committee said: “This is great news which I’m sure will be welcomed by hundreds of residents.”