Hungary to build two new bathing complexes by 2009

Europe's largest spa complex will be built in Hajdúszoboszló, Eastern Hungary, in 2009, if the Aqua-Palace project is realized, writes napi.hu. The waters of the spa have long been considered among Hungary's most medicinal. Meanwhile, in Tatabánya, construction of a new baths complex started on Friday. The Hajdúszoboszló spa complex would operate all year round and will have roofed and open-air connections to the medical building and Hotel Aqua Sol.

The roofed "adventure baths" would occupy 15,000 square meters and have a water surface of 1,600 square meters, allowing it to accommodate 1,000 guests at a time. The thermal baths would offer children's and family pools, adventure pools, a sunbathing deck, saunas and fitness and wellness services.

According to a 2007 government decision, the project will receive a Ft 2.25 billion (roughly €9 million) in support from EU funds.

Development company Hungarospa Hajdúszoboszló Zrt estimates that the total investment needed is Ft 4.5 billion. The support contract was signed on April 29.

In related news, construction of a bathing complex started in Tatabánya, capital of Komárom-Esztergom County, on Friday. Tatabánya is currently the only county capital in Hungary without a bathing facility.

The Ft 4 billion (over €16 million) investment is one of the largest in the town. The local government will lease the complex for Ft 6.4 billion for 20 years then re-acquire the property. The government has signed a contract with a consortium led by Merkantil Car Gépjármű Lízing Zrt, in which the other members are OTP Befektetési Zrt and Magyar Építő Zrt.

The new complex will be completed by April 2009.

The local government would like to make the swimming pools accessible to everyone, so prices will be kept low, however, the "adventure pools" (élményfürdő) section will be charged at market prices. Additional plans include the construction of a four-star camp site nearby.

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