Swimming pool to remain closed for foreseeable future after Shire of Dumbleyung identifies significant issues

Hopes that Dumbleyung’s public swimming pool would reopen any time soon have been crushed, with a long-term solution needed for technical issues.

A preliminary technical investigation commissioned by the Dumbleyung Shire Council has found major issues with the pool site, which has resulted in it being closed since October.

Groundwater levels at the site are less than one metre below the surface, with suggestions the swimming pool has been acting as a “dam” blocking groundwater flow from the northern side of the townsite.

It has also been revealed that “reactive clay soil material” was present as the site, which would need to be replaced during any development.

Shire president Julie Ramm said the developments were not completely unexpected.

“Data from the last five to 20 years indicates that high water levels have been an issue,” she said.

“It has just got to the point where it has caused problems such as the cracking in the pool structure.”

It is also believed the high water table has contributed to the poor state of other infrastructure in the area, including local shops and the nearby squash courts.

The council held a workshop on February 17 where four options were discussed.

A working group will now be formed by the council to take the project to the next stage.

Cr Ramm thanked the community for their understanding with the pool closure.

“It is extremely disappointing, but they have been extremely supportive with what the council is doing in trying to find a long-term solution for the pool,” she said.

The pool is not expected to reopen in time for the 2022-23 swimming season.