Refurbishment of the Gustav-Hoffmann stadium: a ray of hope for Kleve?

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The 1. FC Kleve is currently faced with challenges that affect both the sporting infrastructure and the administration. Since the construction of the stands in 2008, the building has been waiting for necessary renovations. Toilets are missing, the drainage system is defective, and there are no windows or doors. The city has received funding of 1.128 million euros, which must be used by the end of 2025. However, an examination by the Oberfinanzdirektion (OFD) in Düsseldorf has so far delayed the process. The time window for using the funding could be in danger as long as the consent is missing.

While the uncertainty about the test status of the OFD continues, there is nevertheless a spark of hope in the town hall. Christian Schoofs, head of department, expressed that a certain number of tender packages could possibly be used to start prematurely. This could mean that the first renovation measures could be started soon as soon as the necessary permits have been granted. At the end of this week, the application for partial measures could be submitted, which is rated as a "small ray of hope".

Problems at the artificial turf pitch

Another serious problem concerns the lower artificial turf pitch of the sports facility, which Lukas Nakielski addresses from the CDU. The damage, such as holes and foil cracks, led to part of the square to be blocked. Schoofs reports that the city is in discussions with the club to fix the problems as quickly as possible. A new usage contract that has been on the table for months is a crucial factor. Only with its signing can the city take responsibility for the repair.

The administration emphasizes that the legal framework must be clear before measures can be initiated. Mayor Wolfgang Gebing emphasizes that the responsibility lies with the association as long as no new contract is signed. This causes irritation in the council, where one wonders why not immediate measures are taken to secure the upcoming winter work, otherwise they could become more expensive.

Future of the association

Despite the current difficulties, the 1. FC Kleve is optimistic about the future. Christoph Thyssen, chairman of the association, confirms that discussions with the city are already underway on the new usage contract. A timely repair of the places is urgent in order not to endanger championship games. The association has also started to modernize its club home. Water damage has slowed the progress, but those responsible are optimistic that they will master the challenges and complete the work soon.

The current difficulties are symptomatic of the needs of a sports club in Kleve, which is not only dependent on an improved infrastructure, but also on clear communication between those responsible for the city and the association. The coming weeks could be decisive for how the club can master the upcoming challenges. The developments related to the grandstand and artificial turf pitch renovations therefore remain in the focus of local politics and club management.