Bad Iburg outdoor swimming pool on the brink of closure – citizens want to save it!

Bad Iburg outdoor swimming pool on the brink of closure – citizens want to save it!

Bad Iburg is facing a critical situation. The local outdoor swimming pool, a popular attraction during the summer months, could soon be permanently closed, despite residents' efforts to preserve it. As NDR reports, the city plans to give up the outdoor pool unless the residents take responsibility for it. Due to the financial situation, Mayor Daniel Große-Albers sees no other options for operating the pool or financing necessary renovations.

The immense mountain of debt of over 20 million euros and the high per capita debt of more than 2,200 euros in Lower Saxony do not make the situation any easier. The city has set other priorities due to a spending problem that was exacerbated, among other things, by the follow-up costs of the 2018 State Garden Show. Investment in disaster relief and education is currently top of the list, while three dilapidated schools are in urgent need of renovation.

The role of citizens

Nevertheless, there is hope: The outdoor pool's support association has already actively campaigned for the preservation of the pool with around 500 members and is criticizing the city's decision. Around 80 helpers from the community have come together to bring the outdoor pool into shape, and there are initial plans for a flea market to raise donations. The citizens want to run the outdoor pool themselves, but need volunteers, donations and grants to do so. The goal is ambitious: a reopening in 2026.

An outdoor swimming pool in Germany is much more than just a place to swim. It is a cultural experience that has existed since the 19th century. A visit to the outdoor pool typically means meeting up with friends, laying out a picnic blanket and enjoying the sun. Traditional dishes such as bratwurst, fries with mayo and delicious ice cream round off the experience. According to DeutschCentre, this outdoor pool culture has become an integral part of the German summer.

A look at the outdoor swimming pools in Germany

There are around 3,500 outdoor swimming pools in Germany, over 50% of which are open to the public. These pools are often equipped with a variety of facilities - from changing rooms to diving boards and beach volleyball courts. Safety is a top priority as supervisory staff ensure a carefree stay. However, outdoor pools usually close in autumn and winter, while combination pools sometimes remain open all year round. The site Swimcheck provides information about all outdoor pools across Germany, which helps visitors find a suitable pool.

The discussion about the future of the outdoor pool in Bad Iburg shows how important such facilities are not only for local leisure enjoyment, but also for social interaction. Experts emphasize the social importance of outdoor pools, which are essential for families and children. In a federal state where pools are normally renovated or newly built, such facilities cannot simply be abandoned - that would be a bitter loss for the community.

Citizens are in the starting blocks to do their part and save the outdoor pool. But whether this will be enough to bring the bathroom back to life remains to be seen. One thing is clear, however: the outdoor pool culture is a valuable treasure that needs to be preserved.