Nestled in the heart of Perth’s southern suburbs, the Cannington and Riverton Leisureplexes are more than just places to swim or work out; they’re exciting community hubs.
These prized facilities run by the City of Canning offer a space to connect, move, recover, and find support, especially during a time when many are feeling the pressure of the rising cost of living. However, some users with special needs have expressed concerns over accessibility and communication during the temporary transition of the facilities.
For Bella, the hydrotherapy pool at Riverton Leisureplex has been a key part of her health routine for years. After completing a nine-week physiotherapy program through Bentley Hospital in 2022, she continued her hydrotherapy exercises independently, managing chronic pain and spinal nerve damage.
But recent renovations at the facility’s hydrotherapy and wellness centre have disrupted that routine and she’s not alone.
“I’ve not felt confident using the pool lift every time,” Bella said. “Frequently the staff need to find others to help them work out how to use it. I don’t think they’ve formally trained any staff on how to use it before the renovations.”
Trevor, another long-time user of the facility, said the water temperature in the main pool is cooler than the hydrotherapy pool and that accessibility has become more difficult. “The pool pod is poorly situated,” he said. “It doesn’t go all the way to the pool floor, and not all staff understand how to use it.”
Both users say communication about the changes has been lacking.
In correspondence from January, Trevor raised concerns about the lack of visible notices informing patrons of the pool closure. “It is just assumed that people can use the main pools,” he wrote. “These pools are just not suitable for many people.”
Bella emphasised that sentiment: “The information about the renovations on the website was limited and did not give enough support for those transitioning from using the hydrotherapy pool to the main pools.”
In response to questions from the Examiner Newspapers, the City of Canning said accessibility was a key focus in the planning and execution of the renovations.
“The City adheres to national and state regulations to guide the design, construction, and maintenance of accessible infrastructure,” a spokesperson said. “Disability access requirements were integrated into the design to ensure compliance with national and state regulations.”
In terms of staff support, the City said staff are trained to operate the pool lift remote to safely lower customers into and out of the water, but they are not trained to physically assist patrons due to safety and liability considerations. Patrons are encouraged to bring carers or support workers as needed.
“I requested to a manager that all staff need to be trained how to use the pool lift adequately with confidence every time,” Bella said. “But I don’t think it’s my responsibility to train the Leisureplex staff.”
Trevor also expressed concerns about pool management and equipment servicing. “There was a conversation between the lifeguard and duty officer about when the pod was serviced; neither was sure,” he said. “I fear the pod will malfunction and leave someone stranded.”
The City stated that accessibility features such as pool pods, hoists, and handrails remain in place, and it is currently exploring the feasibility of installing a temporary ramp to improve access during the renovation period. Temporary alternative access is available, and users are encouraged to speak to staff for further details.
While Bella has managed to continue using the pool, she noted the strain the changes have caused. “Getting to the pool has become stressful and has almost stopped me, but the only person it was going to hurt by not going was myself.”
Both Bella and Trevor observed that many regular users of the hydrotherapy pool have stopped coming altogether.
The City says it welcomes community feedback through its customer service channels and its Access & Inclusion Advisory Group, which meets regularly to discuss accessibility issues. In addition, several initiatives such as the “Fit 4 All” program and private swim sessions for individuals with special needs continue to be available.
Trevor suggests designating Lane 8 as a wellness lane, placing the pool lift at the shallow end, and improving signage. Bella recommends training all staff on pool lift operation, offering visual guides or posters for users, and proactively communicating changes to former hydrotherapy patrons.
“The staff at the Leisureplex have been very supportive,” she said. “But the communication about the changes has been insufficient and stressful.”
