Sports Policy in Hagen: Investments, Modernizations, and Challenges

Modernization of the Westfalenbad: Challenges and Opportunities

The Westfalenbad in Hagen is one of the city's largest and most important sports and leisure facilities. With over 7.5 million visitors by the end of 2025, it is not only a health and wellness center but also a central location for sport and community activities. The facility was opened in 2010 and features a water surface of over 2,000 m² on a total area of 70,000 m².

A comprehensive technical analysis of the building services engineering (TGA) was conducted in 2025, indicating the need for substantial investments. The goal is to ensure the facility remains operational until 2045 while simultaneously improving energy efficiency. However, the Westfalenbad has already reached the energy efficiency level 85, making it ineligible for funding under the federal program "Renovation of Municipal Sports Facilities – Swimming Pools." Nevertheless, the city of Hagen is exploring whether other funding programs can be used to finance the modernization.

A project manager has been commissioned to develop a detailed concept with specific measures and cost estimates by the end of 2026. The city plans a phased modernization to ensure the Westfalenbad remains attractive for future generations.

Investments in Sports Facilities: Artificial Turf Pitches, Stands, and Lighting

In addition to the Westfalenbad, numerous investments in sports facilities are currently in focus in Hagen. The sports lump sum has been increased from 1.8 million euros to 2.8 million euros to finance these measures.

A central project is the renovation of the stand in the Erich-Berlet Stadium, which will be funded with 392,700 euros. Further investments include the artificial turf pitch in Garenfeld (350,000 euros) and the planned new artificial turf pitch Haspe II (997,000 euros). The renovation of the artificial turf pitch in Hohenlimburg was already implemented in 2025, so no new planning is required.

Another important project is the modernization of the lighting in the Ischelandhalle. The current lighting no longer meets the requirements of the Basketball Bundesliga, which could be problematic if the local team Phoenix Hagen were to be promoted to the 1st Bundesliga. The modernization will be funded through the sports lump sum and is planned for 2026.

Budget Planning and Financing: Challenges and Consolidation

Budget planning for 2026/2027 is marked by several challenges. The city of Hagen is planning consolidation measures in the budget security concept to achieve a balanced budget by 2034. At the same time, rising social expenditures and inflation make the financing of sports policy measures more difficult.

The sports lump sum is used to refinance investments in sports facilities, including the renovation of artificial turf pitches and the modernization of floodlight systems. The city also plans to use funding programs such as the federal program "Renovation of Municipal Sports Facilities" to secure additional funds for large projects such as the construction of a new artificial turf pitch in Hohenlimburg.

In 2026, measures such as the modernization of lighting and the construction of changing rooms will be separately discussed in the Main and Finance Committee. This illustrates how sensitive the financing of sports policy projects is within the budgetary context.

Outlook: Sports as a Central Part of Urban Development

Sports policy in Hagen is a central component of urban development. With over 34,500 organized members in 47 sports clubs and a wide range of sports facilities (85 installations), sports is deeply rooted in Hagen. The city is not only investing in infrastructure but also in the promotion of grassroots and elite sports, particularly in schools and clubs.

The planned modernizations and investments are not only a matter of sporting attractiveness but also an investment in the future of the city. They help present Hagen as an attractive sports and leisure destination while simultaneously improving the quality of life for its residents.