Sports Policy in Aachen: Expansion, Infrastructure, and Support for Sports Organizations in Focus

Expansion of Sports Infrastructure: From Sportpark Soers to Freibad Hangeweiher

In February 2026, the Sports Committee presented a progress report on the overall project "Sportpark Soers," which is intended to serve as a central hub for sports and leisure in Aachen in the future. In addition to the multifunctional sports hall and the riding hall of the ALRV Campus, a mobility hub with a parking lot/parking garage is also planned to relieve pressure on the surrounding areas. At the same time, work is underway at the Freibad Hangeweiher: Following the 2026 outdoor swimming season, which ends on September 13, renovation work is planned, including the renewal of plastic playgrounds. In addition, the water-bound roof of the parking lot is being renovated to ensure the infrastructure in the long term.

Opening Hours and Staffing: Challenges in the Operation of Swimming Pools

The city of Aachen operates four indoor swimming pools and one outdoor pool, which together are open for public swimming for a total of 90 hours per week. During the outdoor swimming season (May 1 to mid-September), opening hours for club sports and swimming instruction were extended. However, this did not lead to a sustained increase in visitor numbers, but only a shift in visiting times. For this reason, evening opening hours are to be returned to the original standard from 2026 onwards.

Another issue is the shortage of skilled personnel: Of a total of 26 full-time positions in the operation of swimming pools, only 21 are currently filled (partially in part-time roles). This leads to situational limitations, particularly in the indoor swimming pools in favor of the outdoor pool. In response, personnel recruitment concepts have been developed to ensure stable operating hours in the long term.

Support for Sports Organizations and Investments: Support from the City

In the area of support for sports organizations, Aachen took concrete measures in February 2026. The Sports Committee decided to grant subsidies to two sports clubs for the procurement of sports equipment. The Deutsche Leichtathletik Club Aachen received 1,484.53 € for a new timing system, while the Post-Telekom Sports Club Aachen received 2,500 € for new running mats. These investments underscore the importance of mass and elite sports in the city.

In addition, budget consultations were conducted for product area 08 – Sports Promotion. A proposal for the approval of financial plans and investments is being submitted, covering the financial period 2026–2029. The budget allocation for 2026 amounts to 15,000 €, of which 3,984.53 € has already been allocated for new applications. After approval of the current applications, 11,015.47 € remains in the budget, leaving room for additional subsidies.

Outlook for the Future: Sports as Part of the Demographic Strategy

Sports and leisure are not only a central component of the quality of life in Aachen, but also an area of action within the city's demographic strategy. With the adjustment of opening hours, the renovation of swimming pools and the support of sports organizations, Aachen is pursuing a sustainable and inclusive sports policy – for both children and youth as well as seniors. The investments in infrastructure, staffing and support for sports organizations show that the city of Aachen is thinking long-term about the future of its sports offerings.