PUBLIC swimming at popular hours will return next month at Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre.

As previously reported by the Times, greater access will be afforded at the facility as Fife Sports and Leisure Trust make changes following a consultation period.

Research was carried out in areas set to benefit - Cupar, St Andrews and Dalgety Bay, Cowdenbeath and Burntisland - with more than 1,000 people questioned, 47 local community groups and sports clubs as well as 11 elected officials from the consulted areas.

As a result of the feedback Cowdenbeath's leisure centre will now see the reintroduction of public swimming between Noon and 3pm.

This development is made possible through funding from Fife Council to support individuals in their journey towards an active lifestyle.

The change will take place from Monday, August 21.

Emma Walker, the chief executive of Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, said: "We are thrilled to reinstate the opening hours at Dalgety Bay Sports and Leisure Centre, East Sands Leisure Centre, Cupar Sports Centre, and Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre.

"This decision will benefit both the public and local clubs, providing them with more flexibility to get active and enjoy our facilities.

"We firmly believe that physical activity plays a crucial role in promoting wellbeing and building a stronger, healthier community."

Councillor Linda Erskine, Fife Council's spokesperson for communities and leisure services, shared her support: “Lockdowns and restrictions throughout the Covid-19 pandemic brought the leisure and fitness sector to a relative standstill.

"Our leisure centres and community sports centres are vital resources to local communities, providing opportunities to improve fitness, health, and wellbeing.

"This Fife Council funding will allow the leisure trust to widen public access to the facilities and encourage people to use our leisure and sports centres to ensure their long-term future."