Budget limitations result in unheated public swimming pools in Berlin, causing a significant drop in attendance.
May 30, 2024
Diminished Attendance at Berlin Public Pools: Chilly Weather and Heating Constraints Blamed
Berlin's outdoor public pool season has begun with markedly low attendance rates. By the end of May, only 43,541 people had visited the city's Freibäder, a drop of over 50% compared to the same period last year (112,096).
Financial constraints and weather conditions appear to be driving the decline. The BBB, the city's pool operator, attributes the low turnout to the persistent cold weather. This May, Berlin has only experienced two days above 25°C, whereas last year it had ten. The unseasonably low temperatures, averaging below 20°C, are more conducive to soups than swimming.
In contrast to last year's chillier May, which still attracted over 65,000 pool-goers, this year sees only four outdoor pools heated to 22°C. The BBB cites financial constraints, necessitating the use of fossil fuels to warm just four pools (Kreuzberg's Prinzenbad, Wilmersdorf, and Wedding's Sommerbad Seestrasse). The remaining pools rely primarily on solar heating, which may only offer minimal heating on cloudy days.
The BBB also introduced new ticket prices this year, but it is too early to determine whether these changes have affected attendance, given that traditionally, only 6% of summer visits take place in May. Discounts remain available for families and early bookers.
As a response to the decreased attendance due to the cooler weather, tickets are now primarily sold online, with real-time capacity updates being provided on hot days. Should there be any.
Although financial constraints and heating limitations may discourage visitors, the BBB notes that it is still early in the season. As summer progresses, temperatures may rise, and attendance could recover.
Factors such as financial constraints and heating limitations have historically impacted attendance at public pools. These factors are believed to have played a role in this year's lower attendance rates. However, to fully understand the influence on attendance in 2024, specific data would be necessary.
Despite the chilly weather and financial constraints leading to a decline in outdoor pool usage, the BBB business strategy includes offers like family discounts and early bird tickets for a lifeline in the home-and-garden sector. The weather's impact on lifestyle activities extends beyond pools as the frequent cold days have reduced the appeal for various leisurely pursuits.
