The indoor pool at the Orange Aquatic Centre has closed following decisions today by the NSW Government.
The NSW Health Minister today announced a raft of changes to the government's response to the COVID-19 crisis which affect the operation of community facilities.
Orange City Council CEO David Waddell said the council is continuing to comply with government policy.
"In the latest package of requirements from the government, the only one which affects council-run facilities in Orange is one which requires the indoor pool to close," David Waddell said. "The indoor pool closed this afternoon."
"The Aquatic Centre continues to provide an important facility for the community and we'll be managing it in a way that lets people go swimming while complying with recommendations that are set by health authorities.
"We're fortunate to have a nine-lane, 50 metre outdoor pool as well as the indoor faciity. We'd normally be moving to close the outdoor pool as the seasonal temperatures start to drop, but while it's operation complies with government recommendations we'll be keeping it open.
"We are trying to the balance the imperative to stay at home, with giving people who need to, the option of some healthy, safe options for activity. Community well-being is very important at this time.
"Pool staff will be introducing new measures to limit the number of people in the facility and make sure swimmers comply with social-distancing.
"In consultation with parents, all Learn to Swim classes have now come to an end. It's not practical to have classes for pre-schoolers in the outdoor pool. In recent days swim clubs have made the decision to end their squad training sessions and the water polo comp has also ended after their state body decided that would end."
