Link Centre Showers Re-Open

Showers at The Link Centre have been re-opened to the public after specialist water quality contractors approved them as entirely safe for visitors to use.

The showers were closed as a precaution several weeks ago following routine tests that showed higher than normal readings for legionella bacteria.

The water system has been treated to kill any bacteria, and special filters have also been fitted to the re-opened showers as an extra precaution.

The only showers that remain closed are in the female dry changing room and team A and B changing rooms next to the sports hall, which will be fitted with filters next week. Within the next month, automatic water treatment equipment will be installed at The Link, which will allow filters on all showers to be removed.

All facilities at the centre have remained open. All other water supplies, to hand basins, taps and toilet facilities, have remained unaffected.

Cllr Keith Williams, Swindon Borough Council cabinet member for Highways, Strategic Transport and Leisure, said: “Everything we have done has been entirely precautionary and has exceeded national guidelines. No-one’s health has been put at risk.

“The ways to control legionella bacteria are well understood, and they include chemical treatment of the hot water system and regular water quality testing. We will continue to monitor and test the system to ensure that it is safe to use.”