By Mikayla van Loon
Kilsyth Centenary Pool will remain closed indefinitely after damage to the dome structure was assessed as being worse than initially anticipated.
Yarra Ranges Council released an update on Friday 24 March stating the pool would be closed until further notice, when the municipality’s Aquatic Strategy was completed.
“This decision follows recent structural assessments that have identified a number of significant defects with the pool, in particular the recently vandalised dome structure which is at risk of collapsing,” the statement said.
“Due to the age of the dome material and amount of damage, any repairs that might be possible would only provide a very short-term fix for the structure.”
The council said a more lengthy closure would enable further investigation in a long term solution for the facility.
Kilsyth Centenary Pool was closed by the council on Wednesday 1 March after damage to the inflatable dome occurred.
Given the unique structure of the dome, the council said it has had to spend significant funds over the last seven years on maintenance to keep it safe for users, including a significant leak in July 2022.
“[The] council understands closure of Kilsyth Centenary Pool is disruptive, particularly for regular users of the pool and for staff who work there.
“However, we believe it is in the best interests of the community to pause on any decisions around the very costly repairs at Kilsyth until the Aquatic Strategy work is complete, and we have a clearer understanding about all the options.”
The Aquatic Strategy is due for completion later this year to aid the council’s decision making on funding and facility use, to ensure “those facilities provide value for money and meet the health and wellbeing needs of our community.”
The council will continue to work with its aquatics contract partner Belgravia Leisure to support staff and users of the pool throughout the extended closure period.
A survey for the Aquatic Strategy is currently underway, with the community encouraged to provide feedback relating to the Kilsyth Pool until Wednesday 26 April.
To submit to the survey go to, shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/aquatic-strategy
