Swimming Ban at Geel Pond Stands Due to Prohibitive Cleanup Costs

The city of Geel has decided to maintain the ban on swimming in the Dekshoevevijver, a decision made after a thorough investigation into the feasibility and costs associated with making the pond suitable for public recreation. The primary obstacle is the substantial expense involved in preparing the pond, with estimates for sludge removal alone ranging from a significant 70,000 to a staggering 100,000 euros.

Beyond the financial burden, the Dekshoevevijver holds a dual identity as both a nature reserve and a popular fishing spot. This presents a complex situation, as the city has received concerned feedback from local anglers who fear that allowing swimming would disrupt their established activities and potentially harm the aquatic environment they cherish. Furthermore, the lack of dedicated personnel to supervise the area, given its status as a nature reserve, adds another layer of complexity to the decision-making process.

While the city acknowledges the desire for open-water swimming options, as suggested by the opposition party De Brugpartij, the current focus remains on addressing the existing challenges. For now, residents seeking to cool off in the summer can utilize the municipal swimming pool in the city center, where minor enhancements are planned to improve the outdoor swimming experience.

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We moeten het slib van de bodem ruimen. In het beste geval kost dat ons 70.000 euro, maar dat kan ook oplopen tot 100.000 euro