A public swimming pool is lovely to use in the summer, but what happens when it’s winter and the pool’s heater pumps are not working?
This is a dilemma the Aqua Sharks Academy is currently dealing with, for this is currently the situation at Strand Municipal Swimming Pool.
“The pumps are close to 30 years old and any repairs are like putting a plaster to a broken arm,” said Clinton le Seuer of Aqua Sharks about the faulty pumps
“The pool temperature in winter drops well below any level that would be called normal – we are talking about 12 degrees or lower when 24 degrees is the requirement. This forces our swimmers out of the pool.”
The conditions at the pool impacts both Le Seuer and the club financially. “There is a major loss of revenue for me and the club, but also for the council-owned pool, as there is no income from entrance fees.”
Le Seuer pointed out that the public swimming pools are meant to be used by the community, but the Strand facility is not being maintained by the City of Cape Town.
Members of Aqua Sharks Academy currently travel to Stellenbosch and other swimming pools for training, as it’s impossible to train in the local pool.
Ward 83 councillor Carl Punt admitted the heater pumps are old and worn, and have been problematic for a long time.
“The pumps that are no longer operating will have to be replaced in a new financial year as fixing the current pumps is no longer an option,” he related.
Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and Health, said the City is aware of problem at the Strand Municipal Swimming Pool, but could not provide clarity on plans to solve the matter.
“Similar issues are being experienced at other indoor facilities. We are working to address the matter as soon as possible and will provide details once finalised.”
