This is when spas could reopen in Scotland - and the safety measure that could be in place

Pubs, restaurants and hairdressers in Scotland are set to reopen their doors to the public on 15 July, but spas currently remain closed.

But could spas also be reopening soon? Here’s what you need to know.

When will spas reopen?

You might be wondering when you’ll be able to treat yourself to a pamper day, a dip in the jacuzzi, or a massage.

However, at the moment there is no date for when spas will reopen in Scotland.

Although restrictions are being lifted on some areas of the hospitality industry, spas look likely to be one of the last in the sector to reopen.

How long have spas been closed?

Spas have been closed since the country entered into lockdown on 23 March, but due to them having so many shared facilities, with treatments usually requiring close contact, they remain closed for now.

Scotland is now in phase two of its route map out of lockdown and Nicola Sturgeon announced on 24 June that hairdressers and barbers can reopen during phase three, from Wednesday 15 July.

However, she stressed that other beauty and personal services (such as waxing or nail appointments) will not be permitted to restart on the same date.

There is currently no confirmed reopening date for these types of businesses.

Spas also usually feature a range of water facilities, including hot tubs, jacuzzis and swimming pools, but pools in Scotland currently remain closed, with no confirmed date as to when they will reopen.

It’s likely that when pools do reopen, fewer swimmers will be allowed in at a once - and for less time.

Virgin Active said that it will inform customers when it will reopen clubs "once it is safe to do so based on government advice".

Some spas also boast gyms as part of their facilities, but again, these currently remain closed with no reopening date from the government as of yet.

However, the route map states that in phase three, “gyms [can] open subject to physical distancing and hygiene measures”.

Ms Sturgeon announced on Wednesday (24 June) that she hopes phase three will begin on 9 July, after the review from the Scottish Government, which is held every three weeks as a minimum.

The PureGym website states, “We've redefined our cleaning and safety standards and will be ready to reopen as soon as we are allowed to do so.

“At the moment we do not have a date from the government on when we will reopen our gyms in England, Scotland and Wales.”

What new rules could be introduced in spas?

Spas may look different than before when they reopen, with new safety measures in place to keep both staff and visitors safe.

Some spas may decide to temporarily remove common touch surfaces such as magazines, alongside self-service food and drinks.

It’s likely that cleaning staff will be on hand to sanitise any shared facilities between usage, including poolside beds and door handles.

Temperature checks could be put in place and health consultations may also be required beforehand.

One-way systems and hand sanitising stations could also be put in place.