Four of Cape Town's public swimming pools to close

Cape Town residents seeking relief from recent high temperatures may find fewer public swimming options available in the coming weeks. The City has announced the temporary closure of four public swimming pools beginning Monday, February 23, 2026, for essential repairs and upgrades.

Why the Closures?

The closures are part of a larger, ongoing infrastructure programme designed to maintain safe and reliable community swimming facilities. Officials state the work is necessary to extend the lifespan of these pools, which serve thousands of visitors annually. Two other facilities, Delft and Bellville South, were previously closed as part of the same initiative.

Did You Know? Approximately R113.5 million has been invested in swimming pool upgrades and maintenance projects over the past three financial years.

The affected pools are Manenberg Swimming Pool, Goodwood Swimming Pool, Lentegeur Swimming Pool, and Langa Swimming Pool. They will remain closed for the remainder of the current swimming season while maintenance is underway.

A Five-Year Plan

The City’s Recreation and Parks Department indicates these closures are aligned with a five-year swimming pool strategy, now halfway through implementation. This plan prioritizes repairs, infrastructure improvements, and long-term sustainability across all 37 public pools in the metro area.

Expert Insight: Prioritizing infrastructure maintenance, even with temporary disruptions to public access, demonstrates a commitment to the long-term viability of these community resources. This approach acknowledges the multifaceted role public pools play beyond simple recreation.

Councillor Francine Higham, Mayco Member for Community Services and Health, emphasized the importance of these facilities, stating they are “vital, multi-functional community hubs that promote health, safety and a sense of community.”

Remaining Pool Access

Despite these closures, 30 public pools will remain open until March 22, 2026, operating under adjusted hours. These pools will be closed for the season on April 7, 2026, following a period of daily operation during the school holidays, from March 23 to April 6.

Pools will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and open from 10:00 to 18:00 on Wednesdays through Sundays. Residents are encouraged to check the updated schedule for specific pool hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which pools are closing?

Manenberg Swimming Pool, Goodwood Swimming Pool, Lentegeur Swimming Pool, and Langa Swimming Pool will close on February 23, 2026, for repairs and upgrades. Delft and Bellville South are already closed.

When will the closed pools reopen?

The four pools will remain closed for the remainder of the current swimming season while maintenance work takes place. Officials have not yet provided specific reopening dates.

What are the operating hours for the remaining pools?

Remaining pools will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and open from 10:00 to 18:00 on Wednesdays through Sundays until March 22, 2026. They will operate daily from March 23 to April 6 before closing for the season on April 7, 2026.

As Cape Town continues to experience warm weather, how might these temporary pool closures impact community access to affordable recreational opportunities?

Four of Cape Town’s public swimming pools to close