By Alesha Capone
Swimmers will have an extra 90 minutes per day to make a splash in the Werribee Outdoor Pool from this week.
The pool re-opened to the public on October 19 – a fortnight ahead of its usual summer opening on November 1 – in line with eased COVID-19 restrictions.
Last week, residents began calling for the pool to be open for longer hours. The pool is currently open 5.30-9am and 3.30-7pm daily.
Former councillor and Wyndham election candidate Mia Shaw said she has received complaints from residents about the pool’s opening hours.
Ms Shaw said there was “huge demand for people wanting to use the pool” due to residents living within 25 kilometres being permitted to swim at the site.
She said the pool “should be open longer if the demand is there and people in our community want it”.
The pool is a Wyndham council facility managed by Western Leisure Services.
Council’s city life director, Allison Kenwood, said last week that Werribee Outdoor Pool would open for an additional 90 minutes per day.
“We’re pleased to advise that from Monday, 26 October Werribee Outdoor Pool will be opening from 5.30 am until 10.30am from Monday through Friday,” Ms Kenwood said.
“This is in addition to the afternoon session that runs from 3.30–7pm.
“These extended hours will add an additional two sessions a day to the existing program allowing an extra 60 visitors a day to enjoy a swim.
“This is in response to community feedback that people would like to be able to book in for a swim after school drop-off.”
Ms Kenwood said the pool had opened earlier than usual this year, with the “split hours” of operation reflecting the anticipated demand for pool use.
“We will continue to monitor the state government restrictions, as well as usage of the pool, to further guide operating hours and capacity,” she said.
Ms Kenwood said the council hoped to transition into all-day operation upon the commencement of the summer school holidays.
