The City of Tshwane has confirmed that it will not reopen its public swimming pools as planned on 1 September 2025, citing “unforeseen challenges” that have disrupted preparations. This announcement comes as residents looked forward to welcoming the warmer Spring season with the reopening of municipal pools across the metro.
The main reason behind the Tshwane delays public pool reopening is a shortage of chlorine, an essential chemical required to ensure the safety and hygiene of pool water. According to the city, a delay in the distillation process by its supplier has affected delivery timelines, leaving facilities temporarily unprepared to accommodate the public.
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Tshwane Delays Public Pool Reopening: Safety First
Chlorine plays a critical role in disinfecting public pools, neutralising harmful bacteria, and ensuring water safety. Without adequate treatment, the city warned that reopening could pose health risks to swimmers.
In an official statement, Tshwane explained:
“While the city had been preparing to mark Spring Day with the reopening of facilities, the delay in chlorine delivery by the service provider has temporarily affected readiness. We understand the enthusiasm and anticipation of residents … our focus is on ensuring a safe, clean and refreshing environment for all users.”
Tshwane emphasised that as soon as chlorine supplies are received, pools can be reopened swiftly, since other maintenance tasks such as cleaning and structural checks have already been completed. The metro has set an ambitious target of mid-September 2025 for most pools to reopen.
This development has disappointed many residents, particularly families and sports clubs who rely on public pools for training and recreation.
Political and Community Responses
Opposition parties and community stakeholders have voiced frustration over the continued setbacks. DA councillor Dana Wannenburg criticised the administration for its handling of water-related facilities, stating:
“The hypocrisy is staggering. This administration wastes water with breathtaking carelessness, but refuses to let our children swim.”
Swimming federations and coaches have also raised alarms, warning that delays shorten the training season and undermine athlete preparation for competitive events. Swim SA President Anton Jordaan previously highlighted the consequences of closures:
“Our performers and swimmers do not have the opportunity to swim in galas or national events, which means they cannot be selected for international performances … Our swimming instructors are also left without jobs.” \
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Tshwane’s Plan to Manage Pool Water Responsibly
Beyond the chemical supply issues, water usage has been another concern in a city grappling with periodic shortages. The metro has confirmed that its 23 public pools collectively consume 19 million litres of water per week.
To address sustainability, the City of Tshwane has committed to weekly leak detection, new water metering, and limited top-ups to conserve resources. This comes amid broader collaboration with Rand Water and the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) to align pool operations with regional water management strategies.
Looking Ahead: Mid-September Reopening on the Cards
For now, residents will need to exercise patience as officials and suppliers work to resolve the chlorine supply issue. While the city acknowledges the frustration, it has reassured communities that public safety and long-term sustainability outweigh short-term convenience.
If deliveries are expedited as expected, Gauteng residents could enjoy most of the city’s public pools by mid-September 2025, allowing swimmers, athletes, and families to once again benefit from these much-loved community facilities.
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The delay in reopening Tshwane’s public pools underscores the broader challenges municipalities face in balancing infrastructure, water management, and community needs. While chlorine shortages are the immediate cause, the issue also highlights the importance of better planning and stronger supply chain resilience.
Until the matter is resolved, Gauteng’s swimmers remain on the sidelines, waiting for clear blue waters to finally be declared safe.
