© dpa
The public swimming pool authority (Bäder-Betriebe) will invest approximately 600 million euros by 2030 in the complete renovation, modernization, and construction of new indoor and outdoor swimming pools. This was announced by Iris Spranger (SPD), Senator for the Interior and Sports.
“Over many years, a backlog of renovation projects has built up, which we are now systematically addressing.” It is “money very well spent,” Spranger explained, because the 67 swimming pools in the capital directly promote the health and quality of life of the citizens.
The clubs’ important sports programs will also be strengthened. Specifically, the partial renovation of the Schöneberg Public Pool was completed after more than two years. Swimming lessons for children are already being offered during the summer break, and the pool will reopen to the public on August 26. More renovated pools will follow, as Spranger explained. “Next year, after about eight years of construction work, the Paracelsus Pool in Reinickendorf will reopen; a year later, the wave pool at Spreewaldplatz in Kreuzberg will follow, which has been undergoing a complete renovation since 2023.”
Johannes Kleinsorg, head of the public swimming pool operations, reported that a large new swimming facility is being built in Charlottenburg. “The Alte Halle is set to merge with the neighboring Neue Halle—which has been closed for years—to form a single architectural complex. Plans call for a shared entrance to both pools, featuring new changing rooms, a sauna area, and a children’s section.
Like many other funds, this money comes from the State of Berlin’s Climate Pact. “In total, we are receiving 204 million euros,” says Marie Rupprecht, executive director of the swimming pool operations. Also planned: All summer pools are to be equipped with pool covers. According to calculations, this can reduce heat loss by up to 30 percent.