The first adjustment to admission prices is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027, and the second on January 1, 2029. For the Henkell Ice Rink, the new rates will apply starting with the 2026–27 winter season. This will prevent a price change during the current season. The second adjustment scheduled for January 1, 2029, will be waived, as the Henkell Ice Rink will cease operations when the Rheinhöhe Sports Park opens. A separate fee and pricing structure will be developed for the Rheinhöhe Sports Park and submitted separately to the committees for approval.

Mayor Gert-Uwe Mende says: “The adjustment is deliberately being implemented in two phases. This is intended to spread the additional financial burden on visitors over two moderate steps. At the same time, a price schedule set through 2029 ensures transparency and planning certainty. The approved adjustments are intended to prevent major one-time price increases in the future.”

The currently valid admission prices have not been raised for years. They are based primarily on adjustments made in 2020 and 2022. For some recreational facilities, the last price adjustment took place more than ten years ago. This applies in particular to the Henkell Ice Rink and the “Unter den Eichen” outdoor pool and sunbathing area (Lufti).

Since then, economic conditions have changed significantly. In addition to sharp increases in energy, personnel, and material costs, the consumer price index has risen by about 18 percent since 2020. This development necessitates a review and adjustment of admission prices.

At the “Unter den Eichen” open-air pool and sunbathing area, the adjustment will be phased in gradually. While the admission price for adults will be raised to an appropriate level with the first price increase and will remain unchanged thereafter, there will be a further moderate adjustment for children and teenagers effective January 1, 2029. The admission price for children and teenagers will continue to be approximately 50 percent of the adult rate, thereby ensuring family-friendly pricing.

Another component of the planned adjustment is the increased use of online sales. To promote digitalization and reduce wait times, single-entry tickets purchased through the official mattiaqua online store will in the future be offered at a 10 percent discount compared to the ticket office price.

This price advantage applies exclusively to single-entry tickets. Existing discounts and the mattiaquaCard discount system will not be affected by the planned rate change.

The goal of this adjustment is to ensure mattiaqua’s long-term financial viability, partially offset the increased operating and maintenance costs, and maintain the quality of its offerings over the long term. Revenue from admission fees makes an important contribution to financing day-to-day operations as well as necessary maintenance, repair, and modernization measures.

The planned rate change is still subject to the decision of the City Council, which is expected to discuss the matter on Wednesday, September 30.