Chaos at Outdoor Pool: Unauthorized Use and Vandalism in Sjöbo

The outdoor pools in Sjöbo have experienced recurring intrusions and vandalism, prompting measures such as security patrols and new safety solutions.

Pool manager Patrik Larsson theorizes that multiple individuals have climbed the diving tower and used it as a toilet.

– It wasn't a small amount either. According to the technician, it looked like an elephant had been around, says Larsson to Ystads Allehanda.

The pool contamination was discovered Tuesday morning when staff attempted to clean the pool.

– It was dreadful. The pool cleaner got contaminated. We had to shock chlorinate the water and wash all the edges. Initially, I thought we should keep the pool closed, but a team of us managed to clean it, says Patrik Larsson to the newspaper.

Problems All Summer

According to the pool manager, Östra Färs- and Frenningebaden have had issues with people breaking into the pools at night all summer.

Neighbors have complained about noise late into the night. Several instances of vandalism have also been discovered – fences cut, a gate removed, and a robotic lawnmower sabotaged multiple times.

One night, unauthorized individuals used the new benches at the pool to build a ladder to the closed diving tower.

Taking Action

Following the recurring vandalism, Sjöbo municipality has taken several measures to address the issue. Benches have been chained to the ground, and security patrols have been ordered for the pools.

The municipality also plans to install surveillance cameras and pool covers in the future.

– The vandalism is frustrating. It creates more work for the staff and, above all, affects the public, says Patrik Larsson to the newspaper.