GNFP highlights health fears for Western Australian aquatic play space

A children's pool at a Western Australian waterpark should be permanently closed amid grave concerns about water quality, an independent water treatment assessor says.

Kalamunda Water Park's waterslide catch pool, spa and childrens' play area are "grossly deficient" and should never be used again, according to a recently released council-commissioned report.

The childrens pool is one of two main attractions at the Shire of Kalamunda owned park, which has been closed since the start of 2010 but is due to open for the 2011 summer season.

The report, from consultants Geoff Ninnes Fong and Partners, found areas of the facility do not conform to Department of Health guidelines.

The report stated "due to current day condition and poorly conceived/outdated system design, the existing spa/kids pool should be taken off-line and decommissioned."

Kalamunda City Council notes state that "the hydraulic and water quality systems on site are in poor condition affecting the ability to maintain water quality to health regulations."

The notes also claim the park has been poorly maintained and structural inspections were neglected by its previous operators.

The council has already spent $1.5 million to upgrade the park's facilities and allocated $3.5 million to bring it into line with modern health standards over the next five years.

Council are expected to agree to spending another $1.6 million on the attraction.

Council planners have also questioned the need for waterslides at the facility, amid needs for cost cutting, but said the City would lose up to $228,000 a year if operating a pool only.

The proposed works would boost the life of the park for more than 30 years. 

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