Aquasplash to close after legionella bacteria detected

Aquasplash is to shut completely for at least a week after legionella bacteria was detected in some of the water outlets.

The showers and wash basins were shut by the current operator, Serco Jersey Ltd, after the results came through last Friday (25 September).

The government says the swimming pools themselves are not affected, as they operate on a separate, independently treated water system.

The pool was due to open yesterday afternoon (29 September), but it is now closed.

The centre was due to be reopened by the Infrastructure Department, under the Active brand, on Thursday 1 October.

However, following specialist health and safety advice, the government has decided to close it completely from Thursday for at least a week.

The department said:

"The temporary closure will enable the water system to undergo a programme of disinfection, further testing and any additional remedial works that may be required. This will ensure all necessary control measures are in place before services are reintroduced in a phased and controlled manner.

"Environmental and Consumer Protection has confirmed there are currently no known cases of illness linked to Aquasplash, and the risk to the public remains very low.

"The temporary closure will be disappointing for members and customers. However, the health, safety and wellbeing of customers and staff remains the overriding priority. Taking this precautionary action now will allow the necessary treatment, testing and assurance measures to be completed thoroughly, ensuring Aquasplash can reopen safely and with confidence. Active has thanked customers for their patience and understanding while this work is undertaken.

"As Aquasplash is now part of Active, members can continue to use the wider Active network during the temporary closure. This includes access to swimming facilities at Les Quennevais, ensuring customers can continue to swim and access services while the necessary works at Aquasplash are completed.

"Further updates will be provided as works progress. Members will be contacted directly regarding reopening arrangements and any impact on memberships or bookings."

When the centre does reopen, bookings will initially be reserved for existing Aquasplash customers.

The closure means Active members will likely have to wait at least a further week to make bookings.

Beau Sejour in Guernsey was closed earlier this month after legionella was detected there too.

The centre reopened six days later.