Berlin, March 13 – Berlin residents are expressing widespread anger following the discontinuation of the city’s popular multi-visit swim passes. These passes, which offered 20 entries for 80 euros, were a cost-effective option for many families, particularly during the summer months. The move to a new digital subscription system has been met with significant public backlash, prompting Sport and Interior Senator Iris Spranger (SPD) to address the issue.
End of an Era: The Beloved Multi-Visit Swim Pass
The multi-visit cards were highly valued for two key reasons: their affordability and the convenience of direct access to pools without queuing at ticket counters. With their removal, the city’s public pools are now transitioning to a digital subscription model. However, a major point of contention is that the new discounts are significantly less substantial than those offered by the previous passes.
New Digital Subscriptions: Higher Costs, Fewer Benefits
The new subscription offers appear attractive at first glance. For 38 euros per month, swimmers can access indoor or outdoor pools as often as they wish. Those who swim less frequently can pay 30 euros for twice-weekly access. However, for occasional swimmers, the costs are considerably higher: single tickets for outdoor pools now range from 6 to 7 euros, while a 90-minute session at an indoor pool can cost up to 6 euros.
The pool operators are promoting the new pricing system as “transparent and fair.” Senator Spranger explained in the House of Representatives that “the pool operators justified this by stating that they have not increased admission prices in the last ten years.” This, she added, is compounded by rising operating costs.
“Rarely Experienced So Much Anger”
Green Party politician Antje Kapek described the situation as a “storm of anger,” stating that she has rarely witnessed such public outrage. Senator Spranger expressed understanding for the public’s frustration, acknowledging, “The economic viability, especially for people with low incomes, is not entirely verifiable, and I agree with you on that.”
Spranger has committed to revisiting the multi-visit pass issue. “Not only have you received corresponding inquiries, but so have I, as the chairwoman of the supervisory board. Therefore, I will look into this again,” she promised, adding, “We will examine this very carefully again in the supervisory board.”
Decision to be Reviewed in Committee
The matter is scheduled to be discussed in the Sports Committee and the Subcommittee on Participations as early as Friday.
The decision to discontinue the multi-visit passes has sparked a significant debate in Berlin, highlighting the tension between public service affordability and operational costs. The outcome of the committee discussions and Senator Spranger’s review will be crucial in determining the future of affordable swimming options for Berlin residents.
