Strict Rhine Swimming Prohibition: Innovative Alternatives for Swimming in Düsseldorf
In a bid to address the recent spate of fatal drowning incidents that occurred in Düsseldorf over a period of twelve days, local authorities and architects are proposing innovative solutions to provide safe and enjoyable swimming options for residents.
Proposed Solutions
Ulrich Dorprigter, a Green politician from the district council 5, has put forth a proposal for a new swimming lake with a surrounding recreational area in the north of Düsseldorf. He believes that the north of the city lacks alternatives for cooling off in the high summer. Dorprigter suggests creating an artificial inlet and outlet for the lake from and to the Rhine to mitigate the most dangerous aspect of swimming in the Rhine - the current.
Meanwhile, Paul Raphael Schägner, a native Dusseldorfer and a local architect, is involved in a proposal for floating islands in Media Harbour. Schägner's proposal, called "Swim City", includes the possibility of integrating floating pools for swimming. The floating modules can be combined in various ways and are movable, allowing for flexibility in design and usage.
Current Swimming Options
While there are no direct information about floating islands used as swimming platforms or formal proposals for artificial lakes in Düsseldorf as of now, Vabali Spa Düsseldorf offers a popular wellness destination for swimming and relaxation. Situated near the natural Elbsee lake, Vabali Spa provides outdoor and indoor pools, multiple saunas, and relaxation rooms, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
Challenges and Concerns
The Rhine River is not a popular swimming location for many Düsseldorf residents due to its strong current. Schägner mentions that the water in the Rhine may still have inhibitions for swimming, despite being clean according to tests. The swimming ban in Düsseldorf, implemented due to the drowning incidents, has further emphasised the need for safe and accessible swimming options.
Future Developments
Discussions about creating new swimming areas in Düsseldorf have arisen as a result of the swimming ban. Schägner is in discussions with the urban planning department about the "Swim City" proposal. If these proposals come to fruition, they could potentially offer residents a new way to enjoy the city's waterfront while ensuring safety and accessibility.
By incorporating Floating Islands, as proposed by local architect Paul Raphael Schägner, in Düsseldorf's Media Harbour, home-and-garden spaces could be transformed into lifestyle destinations, providing residents with safe and enjoyable swimming options. The creative and movable design of these floating modules, known as "Swim City," could also integrate pools for swimming within a vibrant home-and-garden setting.
