New B pitch at Westendstadion officially opened: More space for sports, encounters and community
The modernised B pitch at the traditional Westendstadion was officially opened on 19 July 2025 as part of the first FV Preussen Eberswalde e.V. stadium festival. Numerous citizens, sports enthusiasts and representatives from the city administration, politics and clubs took part in the inauguration. The city's Head of Social Affairs, Order and Culture, Mr Bernd Schlüter, and Ms Sarah Schmidt, Head of the Office for Generations, Sport and Integration, were also on hand to symbolically hand over the new pitch to the public.
What at first glance appears to be "just" a new pitch is, on closer inspection, a genuine community project: with a great deal of commitment, patience and participation, a place has been created that not only plays a central role for the people of Eberswalde in terms of sport, but also socially.
From a wild boar corridor to a sports field with a future
Originally, the B pitch was completely closed in 2021 due to considerable damage caused by wild boars, moles and voles - road safety could no longer be guaranteed. This meant the loss of an important venue for school and club sports: the Karl Sellheim School, the Johanniter Children's Academy, FV Preussen Eberswalde, the district sports association and many other community groups had to switch to alternative areas.
It quickly became clear that simply dismantling the site would not be enough - the area had to be rethought and, above all, made usable in the long term. What followed was an intensive planning process, which was brought to the city council and discussed with great commitment. Constructive suggestions from various committees helped to develop a viable solution.
Investing in movement and cohesion
With a total budget of around 550,000 euros - including 30,000 euros for sustainable mole deterrence alone - the B pitch was completely redesigned over a total area of 6,360 square metres. In addition to the construction of a stable ball catching and boundary fence, the repair of the irrigation system and the dismantling of old structures, particular attention was paid to long-term usability. Horizontal and vertical mole barriers, a professional lawn and new borders now ensure the best conditions for sporting activities.
A place for all generations
"The new B pitch is not only a benefit for school and club sports, but for the entire city society," says Bernd Schlüter, Head of Social Affairs. "Sport brings people together - regardless of age, origin or ability level. With this new sports area, we are creating a place where community can thrive and friendships can grow. I am delighted that space for exercise, encounters and shared experiences has once again been created here in the Westend Stadium."
Whether football training, school sports, fitness sessions or spontaneous ball games in the afternoon - the pitch is once again open to everyone who wants to exercise and socialise together. In this way, the project not only contributes to the realisation of the city's sports development plan, but also to the promotion of social interaction.