An official notice from the Cascais Port Authority, National Maritime Authority, and National Defense Ministry has announced the closure of the ocean pool following inspections conducted on June 20 and August 25 by the Sintra Public Health Unit in the Lisbon district, where significant structural deficiencies were found.
The inspections revealed the drainage system lacks adequate protection, posing a drowning risk, along with deteriorated access stairs, missing protective barriers on the access dock, and poor maintenance and conservation of the supporting structures.
“The described conditions pose a serious risk to the safety of people and property, necessitating the immediate adoption of preventive measures,” stated the notice, dated August 27 and signed by José Marques Coelho, the captain of the Port of Cascais.
In light of these serious deficiencies, the port captain ordered the complete closure of the ocean pool for an indefinite period until rehabilitation works are completed and the corrective measures mandated by the competent authorities are implemented.
“The closure includes access, stay, and use of the ocean pool, prohibiting any bathing or recreational activity inside,” the notice specified.
The closure will be clearly marked and reinforced by physical barriers and will only be lifted once all safety conditions are restored.
“Non-compliance with these imposed provisions constitutes an offense under current legislation, subject to fines and possible additional penalties,” the notice stated.
The Sintra Municipal Council, reached by the Lusa agency, indicated that the municipality is monitoring the situation closely.
“Efforts are underway by the Sintra Municipal Council, Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), Cascais Port Authority, and the concessionaire for the swift resolution of the identified issues to ensure everyone’s safety.”
