Hannover invests in artificial turf pitches – focus on sports infrastructure in February 2026

Sports development in Hannover: The artificial turf pitch program in focus

The city of Hannover is focusing more strongly on the modernization of sports infrastructure in 2026. At the center of this effort is the so-called artificial turf pitch program, which reached a milestone in February 2026 with the third application round. In the 34th meeting of the Committee for Sports, Bathing, and Event Management, the locations for two new artificial turf pitches were determined.

The selection of sports clubs: Utility value analysis as a decision-making tool

In the third application round, the city of Hannover received a total of 12 applications for the construction of artificial turf pitches. After a careful review and evaluation, two clubs were ultimately selected: TSV Fortuna Sachsenross and TSV Limmer. Both clubs have women’s football teams, which was considered a relevant social factor.

The decision is based on a detailed utility value analysis, which takes into account various evaluation criteria:

• Utilization of the sports facilities, especially in the second half of the year
• Structural prerequisites such as pitch dimensions, foundation and flood risk
• Membership numbers and youth quota
• Financial situation of the club
• Socio-spatial factors, such as accessibility and population structure

A central evaluation criterion was utilization in the second half of the year, as artificial turf pitches allow for greater usability during the cold season compared to natural grass. These shortages had already been identified in the sports facility development plan from 2016.

Criteria and challenges: What counts and what doesn’t

Not all applicants could be considered. Three clubs – Hannoverscher Sportverein v. 1896, Turn- und Sportverein Ricklingen v. 1896 and FV von 1897 Linden – were excluded due to flood risks. In addition, cost-sharing played a role: clubs that are not able to cover their share of maintenance costs fall under a disqualifying criterion.

The cost of building an artificial turf pitch is on average 1.2 million euros. For the third application round, 1 million euros were budgeted in the double budget for 2025/26, with further funds planned for 2027 and 2028.

Future of sports infrastructure: What comes after the decision?

Following the decision, the administration will begin the detailed planning of the two artificial turf pitches. These projects will be presented in further resolution drafts and will therefore go through another planning and approval process.

The investment in artificial turf pitches is a step towards sustainably strengthening sports infrastructure in Hannover, particularly in terms of equal opportunities, youth development, and weather resilience. The city aims to continue supporting sports clubs in stabilizing their development and attracting new members in the future.

Outlook: More investments and digital support for clubs

In addition to sports infrastructure, the Committee for Sports, Bathing, and Event Management has also decided to improve the digital processing of special uses. A digital application interface for events, market stalls, and other special uses will be set up. This could also be beneficial for sporting events.

In addition, there will be clearer regulations for safety concepts and electric micro-mobility devices, further professionalizing the infrastructure for sports activities and events.

Conclusion

The decision to build two new artificial turf pitches in Hannover is a milestone in urban planning and sports development. It shows how the city is responding specifically to shortages while also promoting social and sporting equality. With a transparent and fair evaluation method, Hannover remains an attractive location for clubs and athletes – also in the coming years.