Youths force closure of Belfast Pool

20 December 2007

Threatening behaviour by groups of youth at Belfast Pool has forced the closure of the pool only days after it opened for the 2007/08 summer season.

One of five summer pools owned and operated by the Christchurch City Council, Belfast Pool faced similar problems last year and extra lifeguards were hired this season in an attempt to alleviate the issues.

However, Council Recreation and Sports Manager John Filsell says only four days into the season the youths have returned and their intimidating and threatening behaviour had already resulted in the resignations of lifeguards.

"Health and safety of our staff and customers is the number one priority of Council and we simply can not continue to place the health and safety of either at risk by keeping the pool open.

"Belfast Pool will be closed from today until mid January when the situation will be reassessed. At this stage, Council will be looking for a community solution to the problem."

Mr Filsell says he is disappointed the thoughtless actions of a few patrons have forced the closure of the pool.

"Considerable time and money had been spent on preparing the pool for the season.

"Council is hopeful that by working early in the New Year with the Police and community a solution can be found which will see the pool re-open."

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