Kilsyth Centenary Pool shut after vandalism

There are calls for a pool covered by an inflatable dome in Melbourne’s outer east to be upgraded, after vandals struck again.

The Kilsyth pool has closed after structural issues were identified with its inflatable dome covering.

The Kilsyth pool has been forced to close “until further notice” after vandals damaged the inflatable dome that covers the popular swimming spot.

There are calls for the pool to be urgently upgraded after Yarra Ranges Council announced its closure on Wednesday.

The council said structural issues were identified relating to the inflated dome that encloses the pool, following routine maintenance and recent vandalism.

The council said the structural issues required further detailed investigation.

“Due to the unique construction of the dome, these investigations will be complex and will require the dome to be deflated, hence the need to close the pool,” the council said.

“The decision to close the pool during this structural assessment is not taken lightly, however the safety of our community and staff is paramount.”

Hundreds of people have commented on the council’s Facebook post about the pool closure, with many saying the inflated dome urgently needs replacing.

“Instead of upgrading your office building, maybe the money could have been spent on facilities the community use that are in desperate need (and have been for years) of an upgrade?” Whitney said, while Mick asked if there was any chance of a Ringwood-style aquatic centre being built.

“About time this pool had a complete renovation, about 20 years too late I reckon,” Trudie said.

It is not the first time the inflated dome has been damaged.

Local residents discovered the iconic dome had collapsed after multiple slashes by unknown offenders with an estimated damage bill of more than $60,000 back in 2014.

The Kilsyth pool.

Lilydale Swimming Club head coach Ben Craven told Leader in 2016 swimmers wanted an urgent upgrade of the building.

Mr Craven said while the pool was perfect for swimmers, the canvas dome structure caused significant issues, particularly in summer.

The council’s built environment and infrastructure director Hjalmar Philipp said the council

was working with operator Belgravia to place Kilsyth pool users into other pool programs nearby, temporarily, while it undertakes further assessments.

The council will also be working to support Belgravia staff during the closure.

“We are continuing to investigate the next best steps are for the Kilsyth Pool. The dome is a unique structure, which poses significant challenges, but we’ll let the community know once we’ve determined the best way forward.

“We currently have a community survey open, asking community members to share how they use our pools and water play parks, and what they’d like to see in the future.

“All of this will help us write a draft strategy to go out later this year.

“It is extremely disappointing that Kilsyth Centenary Pool has been the target of vandals, repeatedly, over the years.”