THE Jurong Town Swimming Complex will be converted into hard courts to provide more playing spaces for the residents in the area.

The courts can be used for sports such as futsal or basketball.

This statement was issued by Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports, in a written reply to MP of Marine Parade GRC Mr Seah Kian Peng's question.

Mr Seah had asked the Minister on an update on the plans for four public swimming pools that have remained closed for over five years.

These public pools are: Bukit Merah Swimming Complex, Jurong Town Swimming Complex, Pandan Gardens Swimming Complex and Yan Kit Swimming Complex.

The pool at Bukit Merah is currently being utilised as an aquatic and fitness centre by a private operator.

The Singapore Sports Council (SSC) has received proposals from several national sports associations and private organisations to use the facilities for various sports and recreational programmes.

However, the SSC deemed these proposals as unsuitable and two of the swimming complexes - Pandan Gardens and Yan Kit - will be returned to the State.