Saarbrücken’s Ludwigsparkstadion to Undergo Extensive Renovation After DFB Cup Turf Controversy

Saarbrücken is preparing for extensive renovation work at the Ludwigsparkstadion. After a series of drainage problems, which culminated in the DFB Cup semi-final against Borussia Mönchengladbach being called off in front of a television audience of millions, the turf surface is now to be completely renewed . The proposed upgrade includes the installation of an improved surface, new drainage and new grass heating to make the playing surface permanently playable. But: The green, which was expensively replaced during the season, must be removed again.

And there is a particular focus on these measures after the impossibility of the pitch during the cup match sparked national fame and provoked heavy criticism of Mayor Uwe Conradt. Conradt is accused of failing to correct known deficiencies in a timely manner during his term in office, which left the town in an embarrassing and costly situation. In the current season, the city had to invest more than 200,000 euros in the temporary turf, even though it was known that it had to be removed after the end of the season. Funding this emergency solution exacerbated the city’s already strained budget situation, leading to savings elsewhere – much to the detriment of nursery schools and schools, which had planned funding cuts off because of the lawn.

In a new approach, the Saarbrücken Greens and the FDP plan to use the current turf sustainably – possibly based on a proposal from 1. FC Saarbrücken. Although the Greens initially proposed putting the turf in front of educational institutions, which turned out to be technically and financially difficult, the current turf could now be reused on a professional campus planned 1. FC Saarbrücken in Galgendell. The FDP proposes that the football club will cover a large part of the costs, while the city could use the income especially for educational institutions that have been cheated before.

These plans could represent a win-win situation for the football club, the city administration and the children in Saarbrücken by using financial resources efficiently and supporting sporting and charitable needs . However, Mayor Conradt is under pressure to give his permission for the construction of the new turf area in good time after the town took a rather lame stance on the matter. Since it is possible to return the money lost due to poor planning to nurseries and schools, the pressure on the CDU politician could continue to increase. However, the mayor must make the decision quickly, as work on the stadium is to begin at the beginning of May. 1. FC Saarbrücken has released an official statement on this matter. It’s still exciting…

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