Murmansk governor updates on central pool reconstruction
Murmansk«s central pool faces reconstruction starting in 2026 due to a safety-critical crack discovered in the facility.
The reconstruction of the central pool in Murmansk could begin as early as 2026 and be completed by the end of 2027. Governor of Murmansk Region Andrey Chibis announced this while answering a journalist«s question at a press conference on January 22.
The question was prompted by appeals from parents of swimmers, including students of the Olympic reserve school. They are concerned about the closure of the pool, which is the only one in the city with 50-meter lanes and allows high-level athletes to pass standards and hold competitions. Currently, according to the parents, training and starts have to be conducted in other settlements in the region.
Andrey Chibis explained that the pool was planned to be in operation until 2027, but during a routine technical inspection, a crack was discovered that poses a serious safety threat.
The decision to close the facility was made by a commission, after inspections by several expert organizations. Simultaneously, the authorities prepared a reconstruction project in advance: the design documentation has already been developed and is currently undergoing state examination.
Initially, the reconstruction of the central pool was planned to begin after the commissioning of a new pool on Kola Avenue, which was supposed to compensate for the load. However, the construction timeline for the new facility has shifted. Due to redesign and lack of funding, completion is now expected in 2028.
Despite this, regional authorities have prepared a financial solution for the reconstruction of the central pool and are awaiting its approval.
The governor acknowledged that the temporary closure of the pool creates inconveniences for athletes and their parents, but emphasized that training continues in other pools, and all students of the sports school are provided with water time. The region«s sports minister is in touch with parents and promptly resolves emerging issues, including organizing transportation.
More about the press conference
Andrey Chibis«s press conference lasted more than four hours. Journalists, bloggers, and administrators of publics and channels gathered — we showed what treats they were greeted with at the event. The event began with a presentation by the governor, in which he detailed how he sees the development of Murmansk Region in 2026.
The first question asked to the governor was about gas prices. Then Andrey Chibis answered whether the deadlines for major repairs would be accelerated. He was also asked what will happen with garbage in the region and whether new productions will appear. The governor talked about plans to create a management company to control housing and communal services in the region. Also from Chibis came statements about plans to create in the Arctic region an art residence.
Journalist 51.RU Alexandra Balaba asked the governor if it is possible to do something about fish prices: in Vladimir Putin«s opinion, Russians lack this product in their diet.
The press conference was very emotional in places, at one point Andrey Chibis sincerely admitted who he would like to punch in the face. Another sharp question was asked to the governor about the resettlement of dilapidated housing. Questions were also raised about the renewal of Severomorsk, and about what business helps develop the region.
Many topics were raised at the meeting with journalists: what savings in the budget sphere will lead to, why the snow in Murmansk is black again, what is happening with medicine, how to accelerate the process of resettlement from emergency housing, as well as projects by Gazprom. Questions also touched upon the recent tragedy that occurred in the region.
