Spring disappointment: Ekurhuleni pools not ready for residents

With September’s arrival and residents planning to spend more time outside, frustration is mounting over the state of public swimming pools in the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE).

Several municipal pools in the city remain closed, leaving communities without access to a much-needed recreational facility.

Klopperpark is one of many pools affected, with no indication when it will be reopened.

The DA in the CoE has raised concerns, questioning why the city is not maintaining its pools and when the city plans to attend to the matter.

ALSO READ: City of Ekurhuleni public swimming pools ready for spring

“This is a recurring problem. Every year, residents look forward to cooling off at municipal pools, yet the city fails to deliver on time. Pools should be ready before spring begins, not months after,” said the DA.

Residents have echoed the frustration, particularly families who rely on public pools for affordable leisure activities.

For many young people, swimming pools are also a vital space for safe recreation and to keep them off the streets.

The DA has accused the municipality of poor planning and a lack of accountability, arguing that the delay reflects broader service delivery challenges.

ALSO READ: Work in progress for reopening public swimming pools by the City

Germiston City News raised the question with the CoE Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, at a press briefing on Wednesday last week, asking about the state of city pools and whether the CoE has a budget to maintain them.

He acknowledged the issue and linked it to maintenance backlogs and budgetary constraints.

To address ongoing maintenance challenges at municipal swimming pools, the mayor invited local clubs, businesses, and community organisations to partner with the city in keeping the facilities operational and well-maintained.

Speaking at a council briefing this week, the mayor acknowledged the growing frustration from residents over municipal pools not being ready for spring and emphasised the need for innovative solutions.

“We understand the disappointment in our communities. Public swimming pools are not just recreational spaces; they are vital for youth development, sports, and safe socialising.

“We are calling on sports clubs, private businesses, and civic organisations to join hands with us in sustaining these facilities,” he said.

The city has been battling rising maintenance costs, vandalism, and budget constraints, which have contributed to delayed openings and frequent closures of swimming pools in several suburbs.

By inviting partners, the municipality hopes to ensure pools are clean, repaired, and kept safe for residents throughout the swimming season.