The CoE has reopened 11 of its 37 swimming pools in time for the swimming season (September 1 to March 31).

The reasons for 26 pools remaining closed range from vandalism, theft and refurbishments to the delayed procurement of pool supplies.

Among the reopened facilities is the Faranani Public Pool in Tsakani, one of the few operational pools in Kwatsaduza.

The CoE noted that while some pools are open, maintenance on overgrown grass around the facilities still requires attention.

Other local pools open include:
• Selection Park;
• Benoni Northerns, but the reopening was delayed because of a water leak that needed to be fixed before the team could continue with preparations to open the facility. The energy department also had to fix the three-phase power to the pool.

Benoni High School cut the grass;
• Benoni Central;
• Brakpan.

Pools that remain closed include:
• Duduza: Remains closed due to vandalism and theft. Vandals stripped almost all the copper pipes. It also needs a lifeguard and grass-cutting. It will reopen after all the above issues have been addressed;
• Kwa-Thema: Closed for an upgrade. The contractor envisages handing over the site by the end of September;
• Geluksdal: Closed because the facility has passed its lifespan and needs complete rehabilitation;
• Nigel: Closed because the facility has passed its usable lifespan and needs complete rehabilitation;
• Alra Park: Reopening delayed because the pump ceased last month. The booster pump requires a capacitor. The site has a shortage of lifeguards.

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