Newry swimming pool nears reopening after repairs began in March 2024, but repeated delays spark public frustration.
People are getting annoyed by delays, as a local rep mentioned public frustration. He noted missed reopening dates at the pool.
The rep stated that work appeared to be on track, and officials said the pool would open in February. He asked for an update and a possible opening date. People contact him daily, seeking news. He stressed the need for improved public communication.
The pool initially closed in late February 2024 due to a problem in its moving floor’s hydraulic system. Before the closure (2023-24), the pool had 331,546 visitors. The council aimed for one million leisure visitors annually. The council CEO will track how the closure affects its financial targets.
A council officer shared progress updates, noting that most of the work recently wrapped up. They have filled the main pool, and the learner pool will be filled by the week’s end. Following that, final safety checks are scheduled for next week.
The officer understands the public’s frustration. They want to guarantee the pool stays open and prevent further closures. Therefore, they will share an update soon. Councilors are welcome to visit the site, and meetings with contractors are scheduled for this week, with lighting and cleaning occurring early next week.