The small pool at Rakkersveld is closing
The small swimming pool on Rakkersveld in the Palenstein neighborhood will be removed shortly. The costs associated with maintenance, safety, and hygiene have risen significantly. As a result, it is no longer feasible to keep the pool open for eight weeks each year. The pool will be removed this year and will not be open this summer. A temporary grassy area will be created in its place. In addition, the municipality is exploring how this space can be redesigned as a gathering place for people of all ages. Local residents will be informed of this by mail.
High costs and stricter rules
The Rakkersveld pool has been open for eight weeks every summer since 2018. Unfortunately, due to a sharp rise in costs, the pool must close. Hygiene and safety regulations have become stricter. To comply with the stricter rules regarding hygiene, water quality, and safety, the one-time costs amount to €532,500. Additionally, the structural maintenance and management costs will rise to €175,000 per year. This means that the municipality will pay over €700,000 (incidental and structural costs for 2026 combined) to be able to open the water playground for 8 weeks in the summer of 2026.
A nice place to meet up
The vacant lot will be temporarily converted into a grassy area. Later in 2026, the city will explore how this space can be redesigned as a community gathering place. The goal is to work with residents to create a pleasant space for the neighborhood. Local residents will receive more information about this at a later date and will be invited to share their ideas.
