We were all relieved to hear that the bathing ponds could stay open under the Coronavirus Tier 4 restrictions in London and we all share responsibility for complying with the safe distancing and hygiene measures in place so they can remain open.
We have been contacted today by Hampstead Heath operational managers addressing the following issues which have a direct impact on front line staff:
- Please do not arrive at the entrance of the Ladies’ Pond in groups and please do not crowd around the steward’s booth.
- Each swimmer must wear a mask whilst queuing to enter and whilst at the steward’s booth. This is a new requirement.
- Each swimmer should maintain a safe distance of at least two metres from all staff members and other swimmers at all times.
- Please use the hand sanitisers made available.
- Each gazebo has a maximum capacity for the number of swimmers changing there – you must adhere to these numbers.
The City of London has specific responsibilities to its staff on the Heath, under the Health & Safety at Work Act and its supporting regulations, as well as a general duty of care to the public. If the procedures set out above are not adhered to, or infection rates continue to grow, the following may happen:
- Removal of the changing gazebos.
- Reduction of the maximum capacity from 60 to 30 swimmers.
- Closure of the Ladies’ Pond (and all of the swimming places on the Heath).
PLEASE help to keep the Ladies’ Pond open by following the procedures set out above.
Thank you for your support.