Johannesburg increases operational swimming pools to 20 ahead of summer

The City of Johannesburg is making steady progress in reopening its municipal swimming pools, with the number of operational facilities increasing from 13 to 20 across all regions.

The phased reopening is part of the city’s efforts to prepare for the busy swimming season in November and December, when residents are expected to make greater use of public swimming facilities.

“With most major hurdles substantially resolved, the city’s focus has shifted towards maximising operational capacity, sustaining uninterrupted operations, maintaining safety standards and ensuring reliable service delivery ahead of the peak swimming season in November and December,” said Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development Thapelo Amad.

As of October 13, Pioneer Park Swimming Pool in Turffontein had opened to the public, with qualified lifeguards on standby and cashiers available to assist visitors.

Phased approach

The city is following a phased approach to reopening the facilities to ensure that pools are ready for public use and that the necessary staff and resources are in place.

Amad said the phased-in approach was working, with the city anticipating opening 13 additional swimming pools to bring the total to 33.

Progress has been supported by the delivery of more than 150 units of HTH swimming pool chemicals, each weighing 25kg, on October 13 to assist with pool preparation and water treatment.

The city has also deployed 140 lifeguards and 40 cashiers to support operations, while recruitment of the remaining 20 seasonal lifeguards was scheduled for completion by Friday as repairs and maintenance continued at several facilities.

Among the pools scheduled to reopen between October 14 and 18 are those in Turffontein, Forest Hill and Crown Gardens, all in Region F.

Infrastructure challenges

However, some facilities continue to face challenges caused by electricity supply interruptions and water shortages. These problems have affected preparations and delayed reopening at certain pools.

The affected facilities depend on the relevant city departments and entities to resolve these issues.

Meanwhile, 26 swimming pools across Regions A to G are undergoing repairs and maintenance, with contractors working on site. A number of these facilities are reported to be nearing completion.

Amad said the city’s aquatics team would continue to monitor the readiness of facilities and support further reopenings.

The city will also continue working with community stakeholders to address concerns relating to employment, vandalism and security, which remain important to the safe and successful operation of municipal swimming pools.

With more facilities expected to reopen, the city is working towards giving residents better access to public swimming pools in time for the summer season.

The continued focus on maintenance, staffing, safety and reliable services will be important in ensuring that residents can enjoy the facilities in a safe and welcoming environment.