The decision of the Schaffhausen electorate paves the way for the construction of a new, modern indoor swimming pool on the KSS site. With an investment volume of CHF 80 million, this project represents an important milestone in the further development of the city’s infrastructure. The new building is not only a response to the ageing existing facility, but also a commitment to sustainable and future-oriented urban development.
The new building will replace the existing indoor swimming pool from 1972, which is no longer up to modern-day standards due to its poor condition and outdated technology. The last refurbishment measures were carried out more than 30 years ago and the facility suffers from serious deficiencies such as water and heat losses, a lack of accessibility and outdated safety equipment. In addition, the current indoor pool can no longer cope with the increasing number of visitors, which leads to considerable conflicts of use.
An indoor pool for all generations
The planned new building will not only exceed the previous standard, but will also set new benchmarks. With a swimming pool comprising eight lanes of 25 metres each, as well as a teaching pool, a course pool with a lifting floor, a separate diving pool and a children’s paddling area, the range of facilities will be significantly expanded. There will also be an outdoor warm water pool and a state-of-the-art wellness centre with various saunas, a steam bath and a sauna garden. This facility will not only meet the sporting needs, but also the increasing demands of the population for wellness and relaxation.
A central element of the new concept is the separation of the pools according to their main uses in order to avoid the current conflicts of use. The new structure makes it possible to use the various facilities simultaneously and without restrictions. The central entrance to the new building will ensure efficient access to all facilities and optimise operations.
Sustainability as a guiding principle
The new indoor swimming pool will be built to the “Minergie-P-ECO Standard”, one of the highest standards for energy-efficient and sustainable construction in Switzerland. The project’s energy concept provides for the extensive use of waste heat, in particular from the neighbouring ice rink, as well as a connection to a local heating network. These measures will help to significantly reduce the ecological footprint of the new building and position Schaffhausen as a pioneer in sustainable construction.
New synergies and sources of income
The new indoor pool will not only offer sports and health facilities, but will also be of economic importance. A publicly accessible restaurant with 130 indoor and 150 outdoor seats will generate additional income and establish the KSS facility as a meeting place for the entire population. In addition, an underground car park with 150 parking spaces will improve accessibility.
Additional rental space for health and fitness facilities will round off the concept and contribute to the attractiveness and profitability of the overall project. These synergies between the various uses will strengthen the KSS site as a central focal point for sport, leisure and recreation in Schaffhausen.
Competition and project management
Following the approval of the population, the project competition will now begin with the aim of finding an innovative design for the new building that fulfils the high standards of architecture, functionality and sustainability. Twelve qualified teams will develop their proposals by summer 2025 and the winning project will be presented to the public. Construction is scheduled to start in 2027, with the new indoor pool opening in 2029/2030.
The construction of the new indoor pool in Schaffhausen is more than just a building project – it is a strong signal of the city’s future viability and innovative strength. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, sustainable construction and an expanded range of facilities, the new indoor pool will make the KSS complex an even more attractive and contemporary leisure centre.
