The federal government is supporting 195 municipalities in Germany with the renovation of their swimming pools. A corresponding decision by the Budget Committee of the German Bundestag yesterday stipulated the projects that will receive financial assistance from the federal programme "Renovation of Municipal Sports Facilities" (SKS). A total of EUR 250 million has been allocated for this purpose in the 2026 economic plan of the Infrastructure and Climate Protection Fund.
The Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building commented on the provision of these significant funds. It was emphasised that swimming pools play a fundamental role for towns and municipalities, comparable to market squares and schools. They serve as central locations for swimming lessons, club sports, and leisure activities. The investment of EUR 250 million in the modernisation of the pools is intended to help future-proof the municipalities and ensure the long-term availability of these important facilities.
Focus on Sustainable Renovation and Energy Efficiency
The current funding round of the federal SKS programme focuses on the sustainable renovation of the relevant swimming pools. A key requirement for the funded construction projects is compliance with defined energy standards upon completion. Open-air pools in particular should, after the measures are completed, have the most climate-neutral heating possible or have significantly increased the share of renewable energies and substantially reduced resource consumption.
Swimming pools fulfil an essential social function. They offer indispensable space for developing swimming skills through lessons and courses, enable club sports, and promote general physical activity and health prevention. Through this targeted funding, the federal government aims to support municipalities in permanently securing these offerings and thus contribute to public infrastructure.
Further Funding Rounds Planned
Already in April this year, the Budget Committee selected 314 projects for funding in an initial round open to all sports facilities. The publication of a further project call is scheduled for the end of October, offering towns, municipalities, and districts another opportunity to apply with suitable projects. A total of EUR 333 million is available for each of the two funding rounds. The application process for the now selected swimming pool projects will be implemented by the Federal Institute for Research on Building, Urban Affairs and Spatial Development (BBSR), which will directly contact the project municipalities.
