The Yamba ocean rock pool at Main Beach has been closed indefinitely after significant structural cracks were found during routine cleaning. Clarence Valley Council’s works and civil director, Troy Anderson, said the council executive and staff inspected the pool during cleaning [last] week and saw the extent of the structural damage first hand. “There is substantial water loss because of the cracks,” he said. “In the interest of public safety, council will close the pool indefinitely. “We have sought specialist marine engineering expert advice to investigate what options are available to council to repair the pool. “We hope to have it open again as soon as possible.” Extensive repairs to the pool, which was constructed in the late 1960s, were completed in late 2012 after cracks and resultant leaks were discovered. Then mayor, Richie Williamson, said in a statement at the time that the pool’s floor was constructed in three parts. “The centre section – which is mostly supported by sand – has developed significant cracks over the years,” he said. “The centre section will be replaced with a new slab which will be fully supported on rock. The two end slabs will be cored and concrete pumped in to provide a solid support.” At the time, the council budgeted $250,000 to complete the repairs. Mr Anderson asked people to be patient and not use the ocean pool, while awaiting repairs. “They can use other suitable swimming locations like Whiting Beach and, from August 14, the Yamba community heated pool on Angourie Road,” he said.