The first of three planned online surveys on the further development of Salzgittersee took place from December 6, 2018 to January 13, 2019. These are part of an extensive participation process. In addition to the online questionnaire on the project website, citizens were also able to answer the questionnaire in paper form. 2,029 questionnaires were completed by January 13.

The evaluation of the survey is now available. Here are some of the results in brief:

• Around half of the participants are at Salzgittersee several times a month or even more often. Almost as many rate the existing leisure facilities at the lake as "good" or "very good".
• The most common reasons given for visiting Salzgittersee were swimming, meeting up with friends, going for walks, sport, rest and relaxation.
• Overall, the results of the survey show that very different demands are placed on Salzgittersee as a recreational area. When asked what they particularly love about the lake, just under 800 responses can be assigned to the topics of nature and tranquillity. However, many also love the numerous activities that are possible at the lake. A total of more than 1,300 respondents mentioned the numerous water activities as well as the use of the sports facilities, playgrounds and the network of paths.
• However, many people do not like the fact that visitors leave their garbage lying around (over 440 mentions). The condition of the paths was also frequently criticized. In particular, a separation of footpaths and cycle paths and more benches are desired.
• More than 280 suggestions were made to improve the catering facilities.
• With regard to the further development of the lake, the development topic "family leisure" received around 70% approval, whereby the lake should become more attractive as an excursion destination for families with children.
• There was also overwhelming support for further developing Salzgittersee as an active location and public space and adding sports and play facilities.
• When asked what they would like to see preserved at Salzgittersee, over 300 respondents said that the playgrounds there should be retained. Many also mentioned free accessibility, bathing facilities and water skiing.

In the electronic map, visitors mainly made suggestions for the use of the area. Some suggestions that were often rated positively include offering a triathlon at the lake or building a sports field for young people near the pirate playground. A detailed evaluation of the survey and the "Wikimap" will be available from the end of February on the dedicated homepage (see link below).

The next public participation event is a lake walk, which will take place on Sunday, February 24, 2019. This will be followed by a workshop on Monday, March 4, 2019, at 6 p.m., where interested citizens can discuss, among other things, the goals for the further development of the lake. Ms. Lena Preuß (see below for contact details) will accept registrations by email and by telephone on 05341 / 839-3529.