Closed pool and abandoned pavilion, Antigua's PP criticizes sports management

The Popular Party (PP) of Antigua has focused its latest criticism on the municipal government’s handling of sports facilities. It denounces, on the one hand, that the municipal pool has remained closed for more than ten years with no clear reopening date, and, on the other hand, the severe state of the Municipal Pavilion, where water leaks appear whenever it rains.

Regarding the pool, the PP points out that numerous announcements, procedures and actions have been taken over the years to recover the facility, even launching a tender for refurbishment works. However, the party says the works were halted because of problems with the awarded company, leaving the municipality still unable to use an infrastructure it deems essential for sport, health, rehabilitation and the activities of various community groups.

Concerning the pavilion, the PP has circulated images showing the effects of recent rainstorms. Water entering through the roof creates pools inside the building, which, in the party’s view, demonstrates prolonged neglect and poses a safety risk for residents, clubs and young people who use the venue daily.

“It is unacceptable that the municipality has been unable to use the pool for more than a decade,” says Joana Verde, PP spokesperson in the Antigua City Council. “Sports facilities cannot be maintained only after a problem becomes serious; they require continuous planning and monitoring.”

The PP adds that the maintenance contract for the municipal sports facilities has expired and that the council is preparing a new tender. The party demands that the new contract include a real and effective conservation plan to prevent further deterioration of these public spaces.

Consequently, the PP has demanded that the governing coalition:

• Provide a factual report on the current status of the pool’s file.
• Explain how the obstacles that stopped the works will be resolved.
• Set a clear timetable for the pool’s reopening.
• Undertake urgent repairs on the pavilion.