LETTER: Olympia Park Pool neglect slammed as reader calls for revival to prevent drownings
A concerned resident reflects on the decline of Olympia Park Swimming Pool, once a gem of Geduld, and urges the city to revive the site to save lives and restore a vital community space.
Bob Gillis writes via email:
Concerning the article in the Advertiser about the state of the Olympia Park Swimming Pool (Metro struggles to address ongoing pool problems).
It was such a pity to see the poor state of the Olympia Park Swimming Pool as shown in the Advertiser. Back in the late 70s, the pool was one of the few – and often the only – sources of entertainment in Geduld. It had lovely gardens, and families often picnicked there.
After the Springs Town Council was replaced by Ekurhuleni, the slow, steady decline in our council began.
All our swimming pools were out of action for years. Pathetic excuses were offered, but little real action was taken by the council.
South Africa often reports the drownings of schoolchildren on outings because they can’t swim—yet how can they learn when our public pools are left to rot?
It would be great if a reputable pool company could take over the facility, paying the council a nominal rent of R1 per year, on the condition that they maintain the pool and grounds and revive this valuable asset.
We have wonderful, hot summers, and a day spent at a well-maintained pool would be both enjoyable and healthy.
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