Summer cool-off spot open for use
After a stop-start affair, the public pool at Palmerston North’s Memorial Park is open for use.
The Palmerston North City Council had planned for the pool to remain closed while construction of the adjoining $235,000 playground and splash pad continued until March.
But after community protest, council staff came up with a plan to fill and reopen the pool, although there will be some restrictions.
The pool opened on Tuesday, but due to the cooler weather, no-one was in the pool in the afternoon.
The pool is open from 10am to 8pm and there are some extra rules.
The park is still a construction site and the council asked people to respect all fencing, not to enter the fenced-off playground and splash pad area, keep a safe distance from work and listen to any contractor requests.
The pool is enclosed by tall construction fencing, so there aren’t as many places to sit.
During busy times, a council staff member will be there to ensure everyone is safe.
The park gates will stay closed during construction so trucks can access the site.
People using the park will need to park in the upper car park and walk down.
The pool may have to close while work is done to it, but the council will give notice on its website and Facebook page.
If the council is concerned about health and safety risks it will close the pool.
The council wants parents to supervise their children at the pool because there will be heavy machinery onsite.