Iserlohn is making significant investments in the future of its city leadership

Iserlohn is making significant investments in the future of its city leadership

In February 2026, the city of Iserlohn placed a focus on its sports infrastructure. Numerous projects, aimed at strengthening both the local population and the international visibility of the city, were on the agenda of the Sports Committee. The measures range from the renovation of sports fields to digitalization and the application to become a Team Base Camp for the Women's Football European Championship 2029.

Renovation of sports fields: Investment in quality and the future

The renovation of the sports fields in Sümmern and Dröschede is a central focus of the sports policy measures in 2026. Both facilities are in poor condition and urgently need renovations to remain safe and usable.

At the Sümmern sports field, the replacement of the sand-filled artificial turf pitch and the adaptation of the youth fields are planned. The cost of this measure amounts to 347,000 euros. In addition, the floodlighting system will be upgraded to reduce energy costs by 55%. The planning will be handled internally, which allows for cost savings of 35,000 euros.

The Dröschede sports field, last renovated in 2014, also needs to be brought up to date in 2026. The estimated cost for this is 250,000 euros. Both projects are funded from the 2026 budget.

Digitalization of sports offerings: Interactive map as a central platform

Another central project is the digitalization of sports offerings through an interactive map. This platform will provide an overview of all sports locations in Iserlohn – from basketball hoops to outdoor pitches and sports halls. Associations will be able to enter their courses and training times themselves, increasing transparency and user-friendliness.

In the long term, the map is planned to be used as a tool for more efficient coordination of hall times. In addition, the platform has potential for city marketing and tourism. The implementation will be carried out in collaboration between the Sports Office and the city's IT department, using the existing construction site map as a model.

Iserlohn as a Team Base Camp for the Women's Euro 2029

Iserlohn is actively applying to be a Team Base Camp for the Women's Football European Championship 2029. The city has already gained experience as a Base Camp for the Italian national team during the Euro 2024. The aim is to strengthen interest in women's football in the region and at the same time improve Iserlohn's image as a sports city internationally.

The Sports Committee decided that the city administration should regularly report on the status of the application. In addition, it is planned to hold talks with local partners such as the Sports Office, football clubs, and accommodation businesses to build the structures for a possible Base Camp.

Discussion on security and order at the Hemberg Stadium

A controversial project is the installation of an electronic gate system at Parking Lot 2 of the Hemberg Stadium. The goal is to improve order and security and to reduce noise and pollution caused by non-sports use. The cost of the gate system is approximately 60,000 euros, and the administration does not support the installation or operation of external security services.

The gate system will be operated on a time-controlled basis (8:00–22:00) and can be opened via app or key card if needed. In addition, the legal feasibility of camera surveillance of the area is being examined.

Outlook: Iserlohn as a future sports city

With these measures, Iserlohn is showing that sport is not only a leisure topic but also a central pillar of urban development. Investments in modern infrastructure, digitalization, and international visibility help establish Iserlohn as an attractive location for sport and movement. At the same time, the city is preparing for the challenges of the future – whether through planning for the Women's Euro 2029 or the renovation of sports fields that should be usable for generations to come.