Umlazi residents in Durban can dive into summer with renewed excitement after eThekwini Municipality officially reopened the refurbished 50-metre BB Swimming Pool and handed over newly developed multi-sports courts.
The facilities were unveiled on Friday, following extensive rehabilitation work on the swimming pool, which had suffered significant damage.
The upgrades come ahead of the festive season, giving residents access to improved recreational facilities while creating more opportunities for young people to develop their sporting talents.
The swimming pool refurbishment was completed in three phases, with work beginning in May 2025.
One of the key additions is a dedicated children's swimming pool, where young swimmers can learn essential water safety skills and build their confidence in the water.
The upgraded facility adds to the 43 swimming pools currently operational across eThekwini.
A new home for sporting talent
The precinct has also been transformed into a sporting hub, with newly constructed multi-purpose courts catering for basketball, tennis, netball, volleyball and indoor soccer.
The facilities are intended to encourage residents to participate in sport, embrace healthier lifestyles and give young people constructive ways to spend their time.
Chairperson of the Community Services Committee, Councillor Zama Sokhabase, said the investment was about more than providing recreational spaces.
"Through these facilities, we want to nurture sporting talent, provide young people with opportunities to develop their skills, and keep them away from the streets. Sport plays an important role in building discipline, promoting healthy lifestyles, and creating positive pathways for our youth," she said.
Sokhabase also urged residents to protect the facilities against vandalism and ensure they remained available for future generations.
"We encourage the community to take ownership of these facilities, use them responsibly, and protect them against vandalism so that they can benefit generations to come," she said.
Safety warning for swimmers
With the swimming pool reopening ahead of the busy summer season, the municipality has reminded residents to put safety first.
"The city urges swimmers to always obey instructions from pool attendants and lifeguards on duty and to exercise caution."
Parents and guardians are also encouraged to supervise children closely, particularly in and around the swimming pool.
IOL