Gamalakhe swimming pools closed
Municipal spokesman, Simon April, said the problems experienced with the Gamalakhe swimming pools are caused mainly by vandalism and theft.
Vandals have struck at the Gamalakhe community swimming pools, leaving the facility’s ablution block in a sorry state.
With the festive season fast approaching, concern has been raised that children will not being able to make use of the pools, which are nearby and convenient for those who cannot afford to travel to other areas.
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The swimming pools have not been maintained for some time and have been left to deteriorate, Gamalakhe residents claim.
The upset residents say they have fought with Ray Nkonyeni Municipality for years in an effort to keep the pools and their ablution block in good condition.
Both the paddling pool and the adult swimming pools appear dirty and neglected, and the ablution block’s windows, basins and fencing have been vandalised.
“The adult pool is completely dysfunctional and hasn’t been filled with clean water for a while. It contains only rain water,” said one community member.
The pool is meant to be cleaned every Monday following weekend activities. However this is reportedly not happening at Gamalakhe.
“It’s upsetting that the one place where our children could enjoy themselves and learn to swim is left like this. The poor quality of the water is a major concern to us as parents, as this poses a great health threat,” said Nozipho Dlamini.
Mrs Dlamini also questioned why there had been no security measures in place to ensure vandals did not destroy what was meant for recreational activities.
Municipal spokesman, Simon April, said the problems experienced with the Gamalakhe swimming pools are caused mainly by vandalism and theft.
“The municipality has closed the swimming pool. No swimming activities will take place until the process of obtaining a service provider to fix the pool and the building is complete.”
Mr April added the municipality would put in place a 24-hour security guard and also partner with the Gamalakhe community to ensure the pool remained in a proper condition.
“Our aim is to have the above items fixed and completed before the festive season starts.”
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