The MMC for Community Services, Nomadlozi Nkosi, officially led the re-opening ceremony of the Van Dyk Park Swimming Pool on October 26, following its closure more than 11 years ago.
The community swimming pool closed its doors in 2008 for maintenance after the pool wall had cracks in it.
Despite of the chilly weather, community members and officials from the Ekurhuleni municipality came in large numbers to witness the re-opening of the community swimming pool.
During the event, Nkosi shared that about R9-million was spent on the reconstruction of the pool, which began last year August.
“The upgrade includes the revamping of the adult pool, children’s pool, the lifeguards’ office, pump room, learn-to-swim instructor office, guardhouse and ablutions and change room facilities.
“We urge the community to take care of the facility and protect it for the next 25 years,” said Nkosi.
Nkosi added the facility can accommodate 700 people.
Ward 31 Clr Jackie Reilly said she was happy the community swimming pool was re-opened to the public after such a long time. She encouraged community members, especially young people, to make use of this pool responsibly.
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“You don’t know if you are a good swimmer unless you get in the water because many well-known swimmers started learning how to swim at community swimming pools.”
Meanwhile, community members Chantel and Michell Pieterse, who have been living in the area for the past 38 years, said finally they’ll be able to come with their family members and enjoy the water.
One of the lifeguards, Mpendulo Nondumo (36), told the Advertiser he was excited to be back at the Van Dyk Park Swimming Pool after he had to relocate to other swimming pools across Ekurhuleni when it closed down in 2008.
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