Höxter’s municipal swimming pool reopened its doors on Monday morning, marking the end of a year-long closure for extensive renovations. Six school classes and approximately 100 visitors were among the first to enjoy the facility on its opening day, according to pool officials. The 25-meter sport pool, maintained at a comfortable 30 degrees Celsius, and the 32-degree Celsius hall were bustling with activity, offering a welcome return to familiar surroundings for many residents.
The reopening of the Hallenbad Höxter represents more than just a technical achievement for the town; it restores a vital community resource. During the closure, local schools and sports clubs were forced to seek alternative facilities in neighboring towns like Holzminden, Brakel, and Marienmünster, often facing limited availability. Some residents opted for the outdoor pool during the summer months, while others had to forgo swimming altogether. The return of the Hallenbad provides a convenient and accessible option for recreation, fitness, and essential swimming lessons.
A New Building Faced with Unexpected Challenges
Despite being a relatively new facility – opening in September 2021 for over ten million euros – the Hallenbad Höxter encountered significant structural issues just four years later. In February 2025, widespread damage to the floor tiles forced the immediate closure of the pool. According to Höxter’s Mayor Daniel Hartmann, the situation was severe. “It looked sometimes as if an earthquake had passed through the pool, so that it was irresponsible to continue operating the swimming pool at all,” he stated.
The repairs were covered under warranty, with the company responsible for the tile installation bearing the costs. Nearly all of the ceramic tiles, with the exception of the entrance area and the children’s pool, had to be replaced. The process was complicated by protracted negotiations regarding liability, which extended until the summer of 2025. A mutually agreeable solution was reached, avoiding a potentially lengthy and disruptive court case.
Delays and Final Approval
By December 2025, the physical repairs were complete, but routine water quality checks revealed irregularities. The pool’s pipelines underwent further disinfection, and samples were rigorously tested in coordination with the local health authority. Final approval for reopening was granted on Thursday of last week, according to local reports. The city administration has affirmed that the project remained within budget – at least concerning the tile replacement – and on schedule. You can find more information about the Hallenbad Höxter, including opening hours and pricing, on the city of Höxter’s website.
The impact of the closure extended beyond inconvenience. Bademeisterin (lifeguard) Carolin Potthast noted the challenges of restarting technical equipment that had been dormant for nearly a year. “Everyone is happy to be back in the water and to be able to do their sport again,” she said, observing the activity in the pool.
A Return to Normalcy for the Community
For many Höxter residents, the reopening signifies a return to normalcy. Michelle Urlacher-Probst, a regular visitor with her two children, expressed her relief. “I am very happy. I really missed it,” she said, emphasizing the importance of introducing her children to swimming at a young age. The Hallenbad offers a variety of facilities, including a sport pool with a diving tower, a separate course pool for lessons and aqua fitness, and a dedicated children’s area, as detailed on the city’s website.
The Hallenbad Höxter’s story highlights the importance of robust quality control in construction projects and the value of community amenities. The facility, originally opened in September 2021, provides a vital service to the region, offering opportunities for recreation, exercise, and education. As schools resume swimming lessons and clubs restart training, the Hallenbad is poised to once again become a central hub for the Höxter community.
Looking ahead, the focus will be on ensuring the long-term stability and functionality of the facility. Regular maintenance and monitoring will be crucial to prevent future issues. The city will likely review the initial construction process to identify any lessons learned and implement preventative measures.
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Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about the Hallenbad Höxter reopening and is not intended as professional advice.
