Vandals cause ‘significant damage’ in Magnet raid
Maidenhead: Investigation after water pumps were switched off
A police investigation has been launched after water pumps at the Magnet Leisure Centre were turned off during an overnight break-in.
Leisure centre staff discovered the swimming pool was leaking during a routine inspection on Friday afternoon.
Firefighters from Maidenhead, Windsor and Whitley Wood were sent to the scene at 5.20pm and upon arrival discovered the basement of the leisure centre submerged with water, endangering electrics and stored chemicals.
Crews had to use breathing apparatus, wear full PPE and protective suits due to the potential risk of inhaling chemicals.
They stayed at the scene for five hours, with officers from Thames Valley Police also called in to investigate.
A police spokesman said the force believed the water pumps were turned off as part of an attempted burglary in the early hours of Friday morning.
A statement said: “Thames Valley Police is investigating an incidence of criminal damage after a number of unknown offenders broke into The Magnet Leisure Centre, Maidenhead.
“It is thought that this was as part of an attempted burglary. Nothing was taken but significant damage was caused.
“We are carrying out an investigation but we would ask for anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the early hours of Friday morning or anyone who has any information to please come forward and call 101 quoting reference 43200209767.”
A spokeswoman for the Royal Borough said: “Staff discovered the Magnet Leisure Centre Pool was leaking on Friday afternoon following a routine inspection.
“Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service were called to assist with removing the water, the police were also called to ascertain if it was caused by criminal activity.
“We are still working together to understand how this happened. The pool will remain closed for now but we are hopeful the leisure centre will open soon.”