On 15 November, the Ennerdale community came together to revive what was once a beloved public space – the Extension 9 public pools, which have been closed for a long time due to severe vandalism.
The pools, once filled with children learning to swim and spending their days safely off the streets, now stand dry and unrecognisable. Roof sheets have been stolen, toilets damaged, pipes removed and the shower rooms completely wrecked.
Residents say they raised their concerns with officials repeatedly, but no action was taken, allowing the pools to fall into total disrepair. For many, seeing the facility in such a state has been deeply painful, as the pools once played a vital role in keeping the youth active and safe.
In response, residents launched a Public Pools Clean-Up Day, a community-driven initiative aimed at restoring the site, rebuilding unity and raising funds to reopen the pools. Volunteers stepped in to clean the area, hoping it will be the first step toward bringing the pools back to life.
Cassian Van Niekerk, founder of the Public Pools Clean-Up campaign and a community worker, emphasised that the effort is entirely community-based and not connected to any political party. The initiative, he said, aims to offer young people a positive space and divert them from substance abuse.
“The reason we are here as a community from Ennerdale is to make sure we stay united while keeping our community clean. This campaign was started by the community,” Van Niekerk said.
He added that restoring the pools will require collective effort: “An island cannot be built by one person – it needs everyone to be hands-on. We are seeking assistance from sponsors, the government, and the City of Johannesburg to support our initiative in any way they can.”
Despite the challenges, the community remains determined to rebuild the Extension 9 pools and restore them to the safe, vibrant space they once were.
This story is still developing as Globe Post awaits official comment from the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.
Image: Cassian Van Niekerk
Images: Viki Stuurman
