Merwestein: Renewed Sports Complex with Leisure Pool

(eap) In Nieuwegein, a city in the Dutch province of Utrecht, the extensively renewed Merwestein Sports and Events Complex recently reopened following a two-and-a-half-year modernisation programme. Since yesterday, the integrated leisure pool, including a wave pool and wild water ride, has also been open to visitors again.

The approximately 19,000-square-metre mixed-use complex, which is part of the municipal sports organisation Verbindion, serves as a venue for sports, swimming, leisure activities and events. In addition to a new double sports hall and meeting and activity rooms, the extensive modernisation and expansion works included the integration of an esports offering as well as a significant enlargement of the former leisure pool area.

© Foto: Merwestein Younger bathers in particular can now look forward to seven water slides and numerous interactive water play elements supplied by Dutch company Avasto. The offering includes a wide wave slide and a tube slide aimed at families, as well as kiddie slides for toddlers. Two 25-metre pools are available for lap swimmers, while a whirlpool provides space to relax.

New software solutions have also been introduced as operations resume: While Vintia connects the digital visitor journey, including ticketing, self-service, access control and locker management, data analytics software from KnowUr.Biz is also being used, applying AI to generate occupancy forecasts, among other functions.

© Foto: Merwestein Another major focus of the modernisation of the sports and events complex was energy-efficient building and operational technology. More than 2,700 photovoltaic panels, for example, were installed on the roofs and partly on the south-facing façade, enabling the complex to meet a large share of its future energy demand through on-site generation. Another measure is rainwater harvesting: Rainwater collected from the approximately 9,000-square-metre roof is treated and reused, with a former outdoor pool serving as a storage reservoir.

A direct energy exchange has also been established with the neighbouring DeMIX fitness centre: Surplus heat and cold generated by the respective technical systems can be shared and reused between the two facilities. A publicly accessible park with sports and play facilities is currently being developed on the grounds behind the building and is scheduled for completion in 2027. ■