Residents question future of neglected AbaQulusi swimming pool

Residents are once again raising concerns about the condition and future of the AbaQulusi Public Swimming Pool, which has stood abandoned and unused for years.

The matter recently resurfaced after a local foundation called for the swimming pool to be restored, saying it could once again benefit children, young people and families in the community.

Many residents say the swimming pool was once one of the few recreational spaces available to young people in the town, especially during school holidays and the summer season.

Over the years, community members have shared memories on social media of swimming galas, family outings and time spent at the facility during their childhood and youth.

The Vryheid Herald took the initiative to visit the swimming pool, but the gates were locked and access to the property was restricted.

Swimming pool a concern for residents for many years

In previous reports published by the Vryheid Herald in 2020, the facility was described as damaged, vandalised and badly neglected.

Part of the building was damaged in a fire in 2018, which was allegedly caused by homeless people staying at the abandoned property.

At the time, former Municipal Manager Bonga Ntanzi said that financial problems and historical municipal debt had delayed repairs to the facility.

Past reports also described overgrown grass, damaged infrastructure and stagnant water inside the pool area.

Residents at the time also raised concerns about safety, illegal occupation and the continued deterioration of the public facility.

Budget constraints blamed for delays

Over the years, AbaQulusi Local Municipality said budget challenges affected plans to repair the swimming pool.

In a previous response to the Vryheid Herald, the municipality said it had to prioritise other projects because it was operating under an unfunded budget.

The municipality also said at the time that the swimming pool project had not been cancelled and that options such as a public-private partnership were being considered.

Questions remain over refurbishment plans

Residents have now questioned why the facility continues to deteriorate despite previous discussions around refurbishment and mentions of the project during municipal budget and planning meetings over the years.

Some community members believe the continued neglect of the swimming pool reflects broader concerns about the maintenance of public infrastructure in the area.

Questions sent by the Vryheid Herald to AbaQulusi Local Municipality regarding the current condition of the swimming pool, possible refurbishment plans and whether funding has been set aside for the project had not been answered by the time of going to print.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.