Iqaluit pool to remain closed due to leaks

Iqaluit's swimming pool will not re-open as planned on Oct. 10 due to the discovery of leaks.

The aging pool inside the Astro Hill complex has been closed for two weeks for annual maintenance.

"We filled up the pool on Wednesday and then on Thursday morning we noticed there were some leaks happening underneath the pool," said Amy Elgersma, director of recreation for the City of Iqaluit.

"It turns out some of the leaks were very significant which has caused us to have to drain the pool and close it." Elgersma said the leaks in the deep end were like running shower heads. She said the city is working with engineers and concrete specialists to find a solution to repair the basin, and she doesnt know when the pool will re-open.

Iqaluit ratepayers go to the polls Oct. 15 tovote on whether to permit the city to borrow up to $40 millionto build a new aquatic centre.