The Thiele-Aue is located on the edge of the small town of Bad Arolsen in northern Hesse. Many residents were familiar with the valley of the Thiele stream as the site of the old indoor swimming pool. After its closure around 20 years ago, the site was hardly used and parts of it are very overgrown. The demolition of the indoor swimming pool, including the large outdoor pool, provided space for a major renaturalisation measure for the course of the stream and the design of the open space.
The aim of the planning was to create a near-natural extension and extensive renaturation of the 1.4 kilometre long Thiele floodplain, which would allow the public to experience it. The redesign was intended to dissolve the previously paved stream bed and make the Thiele more visible.
In the first construction phase, the neighbouring park was redesigned as a natural space with paths and recreational areas. In addition to the creek landscape, a playground, a large skate park, a bouldering wall and a calisthenics facility were built. The old swimming pool buildings were demolished, creating space for new pathways, seating and tree planting. The result is a meadow that offers recreational opportunities for all age groups.
The park has now become a popular meeting place in Bad Arolsen and is well frequented by local residents.
In a second construction phase, the park will be extended over a length of around 1000 metres and a previously inaccessible part of the Thiele floodplain will be opened up to local residents. Renaturalisation measures will also be carried out here and a large playground will be built.
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