Stratford Park has legionella

Last night I went swimming with my partner's seven year old daughter at Stratford Park Leisure Centre - the showers weren't working and I had two calls from local residents who were angered that they had not had a discount for their use of the centre and wanting to know when the shower reopens.

Photo: Near Ash Lane

It was only later that I discovered the showers had been closed temporarily following the discovery of traces of the bacteria which causes Legionnaires' disease. Apparently routine samples of water taken on Wednesday, January 16, showed five out of 12 tested positive for the legionella bacteria. Parkwood Leisure who run the centre are disinfecting the water and the system is being upgraded to remove' sections of the pipes where water flow is minimal.

Dave Marshall, speaking for Stroud District Council, which owns the centre, said the decision not to shut was wholly in accordance with the Health and Safety Executive code of practice.

Apparently legionella can only infect people if contaminated water droplets are inhaled. Therefore it was not necessary to close any other outlets such as taps or toilets. Further samples have been taken and the results are being awaited. It is hoped that the showers will re-open Wednesday. I have written an email expressing concerns and also asking about refunds when services are not fully available.