Wahlsdorf outdoor pool: Rescue for summer or impending standstill?

Wahlsdorf outdoor pool: Rescue for summer or impending standstill?

In the small municipalities of Germany, things are currently rather poor when it comes to the outdoor pools. However, the outdoor pool in the Märkisches village of Wahlsdorf, which is operated by the city of Dahme/Mark, is particularly gratifying. With its 296 inhabitants, it is not only a popular meeting place for villagers, but also attracts tourists and users of the Flaeming Skate route. According to Kommunal.de there are still 2,416 outdoor pools in Germany, but the decline is dramatic. Five years ago there were 3,240, and the main reason for this are lack of staff and a shortage of skilled workers.

38 % of the indoor and outdoor pools in Germany already have vacancies. In the past season, every tenth bath had to close temporarily. This problem is also noticeable in Wahlsdorf. The city of Dahme/Mark transferred the operation of the outdoor pool to Aquapark Management GmbH in 2023. Mayor Thomas Willweber emphasizes the importance of outdoor pools for rural areas and the need for investments.

outdoor pool under pressure

The funding for modernizing the outdoor pool in Wahlsdorf is a ray of hope. The municipality received 260,000 euros from the EU LEADER funding program. Extensive modernizations are planned, including the renewal of the water treatment plant, new piping and heating with waste heat from a biogas plant. Nevertheless, current data from the German Hotel and Specialist Association show a deficit of 915 bathing masters in Germany. It is reported that many swimming and outdoor pools in Germany later open, close or even close completely.

The pandeme -related emigration of specialists has strongly added to the sector. In addition, more and more children cannot swim, which further increases the pressure on the floating offers. The need to train and promote new lifeguards is highlighted by critics.

difficult future for baths

The outlook for the outdoor pool season is careful overall, even if the challenges are huge. According to a survey by the Association of Local Company (VKU), 46 % of the operators report a better season in 2022. Nevertheless, there are still major concerns regarding the shortage of skilled workers, the renovation backlog and the transition to climate-neutral pools. The uncertainty about the continuation of the federal program for the renovation of municipal institutions also ensures additional challenges.

Despite all the adversities, there is also hope. 89 % of the outdoor pool operators expect similar or rising visitor numbers for 2024. Especially in Wahlsdorf you remain optimistic when it comes to the role of the outdoor pool in rural areas: it not only offers relaxation for the residents, but is also an economic factor for turism. Admission prices are fair, adults pay 5 euros, children under the age of 14 and people with disabilities 3 euros. The outdoor pool is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Mondays and Tuesdays.

The situation remains dynamic, and you can only hope that the outdoor pools in Germany will soon bloom again.