Hot summer boosts visitor numbers at Lower Austria pools

Swimming pools in Lower Austria recorded a strong summer season, with visitor numbers rising from the previous year, ORF reported. Around three quarters of operators said they welcomed more guests, in some cases significantly more.

Harald Gölles, spokesperson for pool operators at the Lower Austrian Chamber of Commerce, said the summer had been considerably better than the previous season. High temperatures and plenty of sunshine filled pools and sunbathing areas.

“Checking the weather app often determines whether people go swimming,” Gölles said, adding that uncertain forecasts tended to keep visitors away.

Despite the higher attendance, operators continue to face financial pressure. According to the chamber, most described the burden from energy, staffing and maintenance costs as high or very high. Public pools are rarely able to cover their costs, while many municipalities are struggling with rising energy and operating expenses.

Older pools in particular require major investment in new pumps, the renovation of pools and showers, and additional sun protection.

A recent nationwide survey commissioned by the Federal Ministry for Sport also found that there are too few indoor pools and water areas for year-round operations. Existing indoor pools are heavily used, leaving many places without enough capacity for kindergartens, schools, swimming schools and clubs.

Gölles said maintaining the infrastructure was essential so that children could learn to swim. “Maintaining our pools is therefore not only a question of leisure facilities,” he said.