A Contentious Decision: Council Approves Initial Planning Stages

The Neubrandenburg city council has reaffirmed its commitment to constructing a new swimming pool, moving forward wiht initial planning despite significant debate over the project’s location and potential financial implications.The decision,reached during a recent council meeting,authorizes the municipal utilities to proceed with the first three planning phases,backed by a budget exceeding €1.5 million. These phases are crucial for securing funding and accurately estimating the total cost of construction and operation.

Dissenting Voices: Concerns Over Location and Financial Strain

The council’s decision was not without opposition.A proposal to task mayor Silvio Witt with exploring alternative options for upgrading the existing swimming pool was narrowly defeated, with 16 city representatives voting in favor and 17 against, with three abstentions. Critics, especially from the Project NB faction, voiced concerns about the financial burden the new pool could place on the Neubrandenburg municipal utilities. Holger Hanson from Project NB argued that diverting funds to the pool project could reduce profit distributions, ultimately impacting the city’s budget and funding for local clubs.

“The city representatives had chosen the ‘most arduous building ground’ when choosing their location. It was also aware that the ‘6plus2’ space program was associated with ‘corresponding costs’.”

Mayor Silvio Witt

This concern echoes broader anxieties about the financial sustainability of public infrastructure projects. According to a 2024 report by the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW), many municipalities are struggling to balance essential services with ambitious growth plans.

Location, location, Location: The Stargarder Tor Parking Lot

The proposed location for the new swimming pool is the parking lot at Stargarder Tor, a site previously earmarked for a locomotive scale area. The design includes six 25-metre lanes and two 50-meter lanes.Mayor Witt acknowledged the challenges associated with this location, describing it as the “most difficult building ground” and noting the “corresponding costs” linked to the “6plus2” space program. This choice of location has raised eyebrows, with some questioning its accessibility and potential impact on traffic flow.

Public Support: A Groundswell of Enthusiasm

Despite the political wrangling, the project enjoys considerable public support. Prior to the council meeting, children from local swimming clubs demonstrated in favor of the new facility, holding signs with slogans like The time is ripe for a new swimming pool!!! and We are not only fighting in competition, but also for our new swimming pool. This grassroots support underscores the perceived need for improved aquatic facilities in Neubrandenburg.

Looking Ahead: Planning and Funding Challenges

The next steps involve completing the initial planning phases, which will provide a clearer picture of the project’s overall cost and operational requirements. Securing adequate funding remains a key challenge, particularly given the estimated €30 million price tag, which includes a necessary parking garage. The Neubrandenburg city council faces the task of balancing public demand with fiscal responsibility as it navigates the complexities of this ambitious project. The construction of a new swimming pool represents a significant investment in the community’s recreational infrastructure,but its success hinges on careful planning and prudent financial management.