Neuwaldegger Bad in Vienna-Hernals: Who will save the traditional oasis?

Neuwaldegger Bad in Vienna-Hernals: Who will save the traditional oasis?

The Neuwaldegger Bad in Vienna-Hernals, an integral part of the community culture, is currently closing in uncertain times. The operator, Gabi Dolezel, has announced that she has ceased operations due to personal reasons. After many years in management, she no longer feels up to the sole responsibility and has therefore decided to close the popular pool. This season was the first time that the gates of the Neuwaldegg swimming pool were not opened, which was met with great incomprehension in the community.

As far as the future of the pool is concerned, things look bleak. Dolezel is actively looking for a successor who is willing to acquire the super adificate. This includes the buildings on the site, including the cabin area, the restaurant and the sauna. But hopes of being able to reopen the pool in 2026 are dwindling as a reopening before this period is considered unlikely, especially since the extent of the necessary renovation work is still unclear.

A legacy for the community

The Neuwaldegger Bad has played a central role in the lives of the residents for decades. Numerous swimming lessons for schools and clubs took place here, which helped to promote a committed support community. But now it's not just the local swimmers who are affected, the entire neighborhood is also wondering what's next for this popular place.

The estate administration of St. Peter Abbey, to which the property belongs, is pushing for a quick solution and hopes to find a new operator this year. Although there are many interested parties, it remains to be seen whether anyone will be willing to take on the challenges associated with taking over such a bathroom.

One possible way: community pools

An interesting approach could be the model of community pools. Here, citizens take over a swimming pool as a non-commercial business, often supported by local initiatives. According to [Wikipedia](https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/B%C3%BCrgerbad_(operator model)), interested citizen groups or associations could take the pool into their own hands in order to preserve it for the community. Such models have gained popularity in recent years, particularly in places where public pools have been forced to close due to financial difficulties.

In Germany, many public swimming pools charge entrance fees that do not always cover the operating costs. Municipalities often have to step into the breach and provide subsidies. Community pools offer a welcome alternative by reducing costs through voluntary work and local commitments while at the same time making a contribution to the community.

Transferring the business to an association or a non-profit GmbH could possibly also secure the necessary support and financing in Vienna. It is important to mobilize the full commitment of committed citizens in order to save the Neuwaldegger Bad and continue to offer a place for swimming lessons and sports.

While time is short and uncertainty prevails, the question remains: Who has the necessary skills to preserve this piece of Viennese bathing culture? The next few months will decide whether the Neuwaldegger Bad can resume its usual life in 2026 or not.