Although the maintenance work faced some delays, progress is nearing completion, pending any unforeseen issues.
A pivotal moment in the restoration process will occur next week when water is introduced into the new pool basin for the first time. Persistent leaks necessitated the replacement of the basin, a challenge compounded by the pool’s location in an area abundant with springs and prone to ground instability. Addressing these issues was central to the extensive renovation efforts initiated three years ago in May, resulting in the stabilisation of the pool and the installation of a durable stainless-steel basin.
Mayor of Pétange, Jean-Marie Halsdorf, expressed enthusiasm for the forthcoming enhancements to the facility:
“Now we have an impressive 50-metre pool with six lanes, an upgrade from the previous five. Additionally, we’ve installed a new slide and increased the number of changing rooms to accommodate school groups more effectively. Notably, a new movable floor has been installed, which also caters to non-swimmers. It’s fair to say that we’ve elevated the professionalism of the swimming pool while maintaining the concept of a roof that can be opened and closed. This means that when the weather permits, Rodange will have an outdoor pool, and the rest of the time, we can simply close the roof.”
While this operational model existed in theory in the past, practical challenges arose, as noted by Marc Goergen from the Pirate Party, a former member of the municipal council:
“When the weather changed, you couldn’t open or close the roof while people were in the pool. You first had to ask people to get out of the pool and then you could open or close it, but then the roof often got stuck. We’re hopeful that the new construction company will address these challenges, ensuring smoother operation of the roof mechanisms. Because the original concept, conceived 20 years ago, was great.”
Goergen clarified that the delayed reopening of the swimming pool is not the fault of the municipal executive board (Schäfferot), but rather to sluggishness on the part of the construction companies or, as he described it, the companies submitting an offer that they did not fulfil. Goergen said that they were now counting on the swimming pool opening in May, as many people were waiting for it.
