Future of the Sundering sports hall: renovation or new construction in Barnstorf?

Future of the Sundering sports hall: renovation or new construction in Barnstorf?

In Barnstorf, Lower Saxony, a decision is imminent on the future of the dilapidated Sundering sports hall, which could potentially be supported with a grant of around one million euros from the federal funding program. On December 17, 2024, the joint municipal council will discuss whether the old hall should be renovated or replaced by a new building. But the financial hurdles are enormous: the costs for a new building have increased from the original 2.3 million euros to 4.55 million euros. Therefore, it was decided in April 2023 to forego the new building and possibly miss out on the funding District newspaper reported.

Renovation instead of new construction?

The decision as to whether renovation can be considered depends on basic conditions. A problem with the groundwater that predominates in the region must be solved before remediation can even be considered. Current soil studies show that average groundwater levels exist, but can increase depending on the weather. In order to accurately assess the situation, long-term groundwater monitoring is necessary, which causes additional costs and must be incorporated into the planning.

Parallel to the discussions in Barnstorf, there is an acute need for renovation of sports facilities throughout Germany, which amounts to several billion euros. The Association for Sports Facilities and Leisure Facilities has launched a petition to promote political measures for modernization. In Germany, many sports facilities are in a dilapidated condition, which severely limits the opportunities for sports and leisure activities South German newspaper reported.