Extent of Storm Damage Sees Pool Closure Extended

The Margaret River Recreation Centre pool closure has been extended for four weeks, following an Engineer’s report which highlights the extent of works needed to restore the facility to a safe condition for community use.     Staff attended the centre last week to discover storm damage had caused the pool to almost entirely drain of water after a section of wall had dislodged and damaged external pipes, with valves unable to be closed off.   Shire of Augusta Margaret River Recreation Centre Manager Dylan Brown said the facility has now been inspected and assessed by an Engineer, whose preliminary report highlights the extent of the damage.   “The bulk of work needed to restore the facility to a safe operating condition includes repairing the hole so further severe weather doesn’t dislodge roofing sheets or further collapse the wall,” he said.   “We’ve also had to do some interim remedial works to further brace the western wall and as a precautionary measure, the rear outside plant area has been isolated.”   “The report shows that we also need to undertake works on the ceiling to stop falling debris, which includes applying sheeting to the affected areas using scaffolding, which we can do while the pool is empty and accessible. Valves and pipes have also been ordered and will be ready to install soon.”   Based on the repairs required in the Engineer’s report, the works required to restore the venue to a safe condition for community use are expected to take four weeks; with two weeks estimated for the extensive repairs plus two weeks for refilling, heating and treating the pool.   Mr Brown said while an insurance claim has been progressed which covers both the works and loss of income for the centre, he and his team are moving as quickly as possible to re-open the pool.   “I understand pool-users are keen to get back in the water as soon as possible and we will do our best to make that happen as soon as we can,” he said.   Mr Brown said all swimming and aquatic classes were cancelled for the next four weeks pending further advice and that memberships which include pool access would be automatically credited.   Kids Club Vacation Care is continuing at the centre in the second week of school holidays with swimming replaced by other activities.   For further enquiries please contact the Margaret River Recreation Centre on 08 9780 5620 or email [email protected]   Further updates will be posted on the Margaret River Recreation Centre’s website and Facebook page.