AN independent engineer has inspected the perspex glass screen work done at the local pool and has given it the all-clear.
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A structural engineer’s report given to council director Graham Price and seen by the Examiner indicated that the work was carried out to manufacturer’s instructions and to best practice, but Glen Innes’ extreme weather conditions caused unforeseen problems.
The report said the fixing detail used for the plexiglass wall was in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
“Plexiglass is known to be subject to thermal expansion and contraction and the typical maximum daily temperature variation at Glen Innes is up to 20 degrees,” Local Government Engineering Services manager Andrew Dekkers said.
“With the weight of the panels and gravity, the panels have slipped downwards when shrinking, but obviously when they expand they are unable to go back up, hence the slipping.
“To overcome this problem a simple aluminium channel will be provided under the glass to allow it to rest on the concrete. There is no work or public place hazard. The community can be assured that the pool is safe to use.”
Mr Dekkers’ report also addressed other issues that were raised by Glen Innes local David Allenberg.
“There are over 200 bolts in the structure and five were loose and have since been tightened,” he said.
“The wind break was not designed to carry a roof and council has no plans to fully enclose the pool.
“Welding was raised as a concern, however on inspection, the areas of concern appear to be primarily in some cover strips, which are non-structural, and were a site addition to hide the gaps and improve the overall appearance.”
Mayor Steve Toms assured locals the work was safe.
“Our community can be assured that the pool is safe,” he said.
“We now have a wonderful pool that is both visually and practically a great asset.”
Mr Price said the report was comprehensive.
“All of Mr Allenberg’s concerns were looked into and we have thoroughly addressed them, “ Mr Price said.