The City's Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded 2 294 incidents over the 2023 Easter long weekend, including 211 incidents of assault and 75 motor vehicle and pedestrian vehicle accidents.

'For most people, this is a time of relaxation and spending time with their loved ones. For criminals, it is an opportunity to exploit that holiday spirit, so we urge the public to be vigilant wherever they go. Experience has also taught us to expect increased levels of alcohol use and related trauma over the payday or month-end periods. The long weekend will likely further complicate matters. Our enforcement strategy is to ensure public safety, but staff will not hesitate to act against anyone wilfully putting themselves or others at risk. Everyone ought to know by now the importance of responsible behaviour and what that looks like, so consider yourself warned,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith. 

All community swimming pools will be open daily from Monday, 25 March until Monday, 1 April, before closing for the off-season.

The Trafalgar swimming pool will remain open daily until 12 April, as an alternative facility while repairs are completed at the Long Street Indoor Swimming Pool.

​​'Our lifeguards will be on duty at swimming pools and beaches until the conclusion of the Easter weekend. We've had 14 fatal drownings since September and I implore the public to please work with us to ensure that no more lives are lost in this manner. We have safety measures in place at our facilities, but ultimately your personal safety is your responsibility. Leave the alcohol at home, swim only in designated areas and where lifeguards are on duty, and keep an eye on your children at all times,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van Der Ross.

 

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