Cape Town - A sinkhole detected at the Sea Point Pavilion swimming pool has forced its temporary closure until November to allow for critical excavation and repairs.
The City of Cape Town said the sinkhole was discovered during a routine inspection of the facility.
“Sea Point swimming pool is one of our most popular facilities, open all year long,” said community services and health Mayco member Patricia Van der Ross.
During a routine inspection of the facility, a sinkhole was detected. The sinkhole was created by a collapsed water line.
“For a proper assessment of the damage and to determine the exact scope of work required for repairs, the entire water line must be unearthed.
“At this stage, the pool has to be closed due to this critical work.
“We apologise to the facility users for any inconvenience caused, and will work as speedily as possible to ensure this amenity is up and running soon.”
Health and safety precautions have been implemented with signage, as well as fencing to restrict access to unsafe areas. Sea Point ward councillor Nicole Jowell said the repairs started on Friday and could possibly only be completed by November.
“I am trying to get them to limit that as much as possible, and all efforts will be made to minimise delays and restore access as soon as it is safe to do so,” said Jowell.
Van der Ross said updates on the repairs will be provided by the Recreation and Parks Department at a later stage.
In the meantime, bathers are encouraged to use the Long Street indoor swimming pool while Sea Point is closed.
Long Street’s operating hours are Monday to Sunday and public holidays, 7am - 7pm.
Long Street Indoor Swimming Pool is reserved for use by ladies only every Tuesday from 10am – 2pm, or 10am - 1pm during school holidays.
If a public holiday falls on a Tuesday, full public use will be permitted that day.