Johannesburg delays public pool season opening
The extension is necessary to ensure that all municipal swimming facilities meet the strict health safety and operational standard required to provide a safe environment for the public.
The City of Johannesburg has announced that the official opening of public swimming pools, scheduled to open on September 1, has been postponed to October 1.
A member of the mayoral committee for community development, Thapelo Amad, has apologised for the delay.
He said the extension is necessary to ensure that all municipal swimming facilities meet the strict health, safety and operational standards required to provide a safe environment for the public.
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The city has adopted a phased reopening approach with 36 pools in October, recognising that the condition and operational requirements of facilities vary across regions.
“The city recognises the important role municipal swimming pools play in providing affordable recreation, promoting active and healthy lifestyles, and creating safe recreational spaces for children, young people and communities during the warmer months,” he said.
In view of the delayed start to the season, the city is also considering extending the 2026\27 swimming season into April 2027, weather permitting and subject to operational considerations.
This would provide residents with additional access to municipal swimming facilities and partially offset the shortened season.
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“The city is actively working to resolve outstanding compliance and maintenance tasks over the next month. We thank our residents for their patience and understanding as we work to ensure our recreational spaces are safe for everyone this summer,” concluded Amad.
