Sports Development in Siegen: How the City Actively Promotes Inclusion, Accessibility, and Future Readiness

Siegen's Sports Development Plan: A Guide for an Inclusive Culture of Movement

In February 2026, the city of Siegen decided to develop an integrated sports development plan – a central measure to rethink the sports infrastructure and movement landscape in the region. The plan is more than just a planning document: It is intended to provide guidelines for investments, inclusion, and accessible sports facilities while proactively shaping future developments.

The Sports Development Plan: Content, Costs, and Implementation

The sports development plan will be implemented in three stages: first, an inventory and needs analysis, followed by the development of a vision with strategic goals, and finally the formulation of concrete measures. For this process, external expert offices with scientific expertise and independence will be commissioned, at a cost of approximately 75,000 euros.

The administration explicitly supports the plan but identifies challenges in its financial implementation. The plan is therefore politically driven – by the CDU, SPD, Greens, UWG, and Volt – and will be submitted to the City Council at the latest after 36 months. Its implementation will largely depend on the priorities of the political majority.

Inclusion and Accessibility: Central Challenges

A central topic is the accessibility of sports facilities. The UWG faction explicitly asked how inclusive the gymnasia in Siegen are. The administration emphasizes that accessibility aspects are considered in renovations – though only within the structural possibilities. Investments in accessibility are part of overall renovation measures and depend on political prioritization.

Funding for inclusive sports facility construction is available, for example through the "Renovation of Municipal Sports Facilities (SKS)" program. The city of Siegen has already expressed interest in such funding. The challenge lies in the targeted use of these funds and the planning of renovations in a way that ensures long-term inclusivity and future readiness.

Movement in Public Spaces: Climate Protection and Land Use Efficiency

The sports development plan also takes into account changes in sports behavior: an increasing number of citizens are active outside of clubs, and digital offerings and new target groups are shaping the picture. Therefore, public spaces should be designed to be more movement-friendly – an approach that also includes climate protection and land use efficiency.

Projects such as the movement course "SiegArena" are already in the final stages. The implementation planning has been completed, and the sports equipment has been ordered. Construction can begin by the City Sports Association if the weather is good. Another project, the replacement of ball gate goals with combined models including a basketball hoop, has been postponed for now due to a lack of funds.

Conclusion: A Long-Term Path to More Movement and Inclusion

The sports development plan is a central milestone in Siegen's sports policy strategy. It enables transparent planning of investments and setting of priorities – not least for inclusion, climate protection, and social justice. However, how and how quickly the plans are implemented will strongly depend on political priorities and financial support. With the involvement of many stakeholders and clear objectives, Siegen will steadily move forward on the path to becoming a more inclusive and movement-friendly city.