Demolition of Iconic DDR Leisure Pool in Berlin-Friedrichshain Confirmed

The long-standing debate surrounding the future of the former Sport- und Erholungszentrum (SEZ) in Berlin-Friedrichshain has reached a definitive conclusion: the building will be demolished. This announcement was made by the head of the state-owned Berlin housing company, WBM, following their acquisition of the property on January 1st. The SEZ, which opened in 1981 and has remained closed since 2002, will make way for a new mixed-use development.

WBM plans to initiate a classic urban development project on the 30,000-square-meter site. Currently, a call for proposals is underway for a feasibility study, which will determine the potential for constructing more than the initially projected 500 to 600 residential units. This study will also assess the possibility of reusing materials and identify any hazardous substances present in the structure. Additionally, it will provide a timeline for both the demolition and the subsequent construction phases.

Despite several calls from various stakeholders, including architects and community advocates, to preserve the SEZ, WBM has made it clear that no study regarding the building's conservation will be conducted. The WBM's leadership has emphasized a commitment to residential development over maintaining what they describe as an outdated facility.

Lars Dormeyer, managing director of WBM, referred to advocates for the building's preservation as "nostalgics," indicating a clear stance: "Those who support preserving the SEZ do not prioritize housing development. We are dedicated to providing residential solutions and do not intend to maintain old leisure facilities."

The former leisure pool has suffered extensive neglect, with reports of significant vandalism and deterioration. During the brief time since WBM took ownership, emergency security measures were instituted, including shutting off water and electricity, changing locks, and erecting a perimeter fence. Surveillance cameras have been installed to monitor the area, and previous unauthorized users have been barred from accessing the site.

Since its closure, the SEZ has changed hands multiple times, with a notable incident involving the sale to a Leipzig investor who failed to comply with the purchase conditions, leading to a protracted legal dispute. In November 2023, a ruling from the Federal Court of Justice mandated the return of the SEZ to the city of Berlin for a symbolic price of one euro.

As discussions about future utilization intensify, proposals have emerged for incorporating not only residential units but also commercial spaces and educational facilities, including a school designated for the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district. However, plans for a new swimming pool on the premises have been ruled out, although fitness centers may potentially occupy some of the commercial spaces.