The UK Spa Association (UKSA) has announced saunas and steamrooms in England can reopen from 1 August.

The trade body told Spa Business the announcement followed UKSA GM Helena Grzesk receiving both verbal and written confirmation to reopen thermal facilities from the UK government’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

According to the UKSA: “This reopening is subject to social-distancing guidelines.

“Operators of saunas and steamrooms must calculate how many people can be accommodated at one time using social distancing – only that number will be allowed into these rooms.

“No face coverings are to be worn in the sauna or steamroom and these facilities must be regularly cleaned and sanitised.”

The announcement means that these thermal facilities will be allowed to reopen on the same day facials can recommence – following last week’s statement by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on 17 July that close-contact services can resume.

Grzesk commented: "I’m delighted to have received the confirmation that England's saunas and steamrooms can reopen.

"It’s yet another welcome sign that our sector is reopening and it’s wonderful to know beneficial facilities such as these, can be enjoyed again."