Bathing ban on Lake Porstendorfer: A dispute over security and access

Bathing ban on Lake Porstendorfer: A dispute over security and access

The summer vacation in Thuringia should be a time of relaxation and joy for families, especially at the chosen bathing areas. But this idyll is questioned by a stubborn bathing ban on Lake Porstendorfer, a popular destination at Jena.

Litigation around the Porstendorfer See

The Porstendorfer See, which is part of the "Camping & Ferienpark near Jena", has been operated by Jan Wakker and his family for 13 years. Visitors benefit from the infrastructure of the campsite, but swimming in the lake is not officially offered. According to Wakker, the admission price of three euros per day serves to maintain the sanitary facilities and the general care of the site. The bathing ban, which was already pronounced in 2016, has a long history. It was last confirmed before the Gera administrative court, which means that the members of the association "Friends Porstendorfer See" are no longer allowed to swim in the water.

Requirements for Security

The local authority, however, sees the need for a lifeguard because special safety rules apply to bathing systems. The Landratsamt Saale-Holzland-Kreis explained that there is a "danger to life and life" without a lifeguard. This view is perceived by Wakker as disproportionate and possible. He argues that the regulation is not fair, especially since he does not operate an official bathing establishment.

Alternative opportunities for the bathing season

Actually there is a solution: Wakker could grant the guests free access to the property, so that the bathing area would no longer be considered a "bathing establishment". In this case, swimmers should be in the water at their own risk - without a lifeguard being necessary. "It's all nonsensical," says Wakker, and above all sees the authority as a responsibility to offer a practical solution.

Future of the campsite uncertain

With the use of legal support from a lawyer, Wakker wants to check what options are available to clarify the situation. For the guests of the campsite and the families in the region, the loss of such a central recreational location is unfortunate. The recreational landscape in Thuringia, which is often valued for its beautiful lakes, could be severely affected by this argument.