CoE confirm Kempton Park swimming pool upgrades on the horizon

The Kempton Express previously reported the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) scheduled upgrades to the Kempton Park Swimming Pool for the 2024/25 and 2025/26 financial years.

In the article published on December 12, Ward 16 Clr Jaco Terblanche provided an update on the project.
“Funding has been allocated through the IDP process.

“The swimming pool forms part of my ward’s IDP, and we are now awaiting the appointment of a contractor to start the revamp of the swimming pool,” said Terblanche.

ALSO READ: Kempton Park swimming pool revamp on the cards

The pool has been non-operational since the 2020/21 season, because of malfunctioning pumps.
“Vagrants vandalised the pool, which is disheartening.

“Sadly, a facility like this is in such a dire state and unavailable to the community, particularly for children during the holidays,” he added.

Terblanche previously stated the CoE planned to spend R6m in 2024/25 and R6.5m in 2025/26 on upgrades.

“The planned upgrade includes work on both the main pool and the children’s pool. Structural cracks in both pools need significant remedial work, as they are losing water,” said Terblanche.

ALSO READ: Kempton’s swimming pool yet to get an upgrade

The upgrades will involve removing pool tiles, inspecting for leaks, re-tiling, and upgrading the pump room and filtration system.

Years of neglect have left this Olympic-sized pool in a state of disrepair.

The entire facility has become a target for criminal activity and a refuge for homeless individuals.

Behind the pool, illegally dumped waste is evident, while the fencing is in poor condition, with sections replaced by barbed wire after the walls collapsed.

CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini confirmed the projects section of the SRAC Department appointed consultants to assess the required work and prepare a bill of quantities.

“These consultants will conduct a comprehensive assessment and provide the department with a detailed scope of the work,” said Dlamini.

He added consultants had met with SRAC officials twice since 1 July 2024 to compile a priority structure for the Kempton Park swimming pool.

“The city allocated a budget of R5m for this financial year, including the appointment of consultants, with a further R6.5 million allocated for the next financial year,” said Dlamini.

Addressing the immediate concerns, Dlamini confirmed fixing water leaks was the top priority, followed by repairs to the baby pool and the pump room.

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“The CoE upgraded the changing rooms three years ago, and staff continue to keep the facility as clean as possible despite the challenges,” he said.

On the topic of security, Dlamini acknowledged the ongoing issues.

“The current security structure remains in place, and additional security was requested. However, EMPD faces limitations because of financial constraints,” he said.

“The CoE remains committed to restoring the pool to its former glory.

“Kempton Park swimming pool is due for total refurbishment during the 2024/25 and 2025/26 financial years.

“The CoE has invested significant time and money in upgrading many of its swimming pools during the 2023/24 financial year and will continue to do so as the budget permits,” said Dlamini.