Retreat swimming pool re-opened after costly vandalism repairs
08 May 2025
The Retreat Swimming Pool has re-opened after repairs when a break-in at the facility last month resulted in significant damage to the plant room. Currently, there is an issue with the heating units, but it is being attended to. Despite this, the water is at a warm temperature.
Last month, staff arrived at the facility to find that it had been burgled and pipes stolen just six months after the pool had reopened to the public, following a period of critical repairs and maintenance.
The heating units were also impacted, although this was only discovered once all the stolen pipes were replaced and the system switched on again.
Although the heating units have not yet reached the regular temperature of 26 degrees Celsius, they are currently at 23.5 to 24 degrees Celsius.
Repairs cost in excess of R50 000 and included the replacement of pipes and two gauges (one was damaged and one was stolen), the replacement of a tap inside the plant room and repairs to mixing drums.
The pool accommodates a number of aquatics clubs and other organisations like Eco Active, the NSRI, and Learn to Swim, catering to early childhood development centres, primary and high schools, and seniors from various communities.
The untimely closure of the pool affected nearly two thousand users over the period.
‘I am really happy that the Retreat Swimming Pool is open for business again. While the water is slightly cooler than normal, we are working hard to get it back to optimal levels, and we are eager to welcome back all of our regular users. The pool is a well-used facility and offers a space for exercise, recreation, socialising, fun, health and fitness. The closure, even though temporary, once again highlighted the impact that vandalism and theft of our infrastructure has on communities. I want to encourage residents to take ownership of our facilities and say something when they see something. Help us bring the perpetrators to book as these facilities belong to all of us,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.
Incidents of crime can be reported to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700.
Alternatively, the public can share tips for a potential reward via the City’s 24-hour tip-off line on 0800 110 077.
Caption 1: The Retreat Swimming Pool is open once again.
Caption 2: From left are lifeguards Kyle Smart, Timothy Adonis and Ndumiso Mhlanziat at Retreat Swimming Pool, ready to welcome patrons back following the facility’s temporary closure.
End
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
