Motejl requests a review of the intention to demolish the villa in Barrandov

Brno - Ombudsman Otakar Motejl recently called on Minister of Culture Václav Jehlička to advocate for a review process in the case of the planned demolition of a villa from the 1940s in Prague's Barrandov. The building in the residential district, which was once built by the father of former Czech President Václav Havel, is set to be replaced by a large apartment building. The ombudsman does not like that there are several conflicting decisions in the dispute over the villa. He considers the case an example of opaque decision-making in the area of monument preservation, said today ČTK spokesperson of the ombudsman's office, Iva Hrazdílková.
    The current villa on Pod Ateliéry street is part of a heritage zone. The structure is to be completely demolished, and a building with 13 apartments is to be constructed in its place. The new building will be four times larger than the original historical villa. As a result, its garden will also be destroyed.
    The ombudsman pointed out that the National Heritage Institute initially "absolutely" rejected the plan. He specifically cited the size of the planned building and its unsuitability for the local construction. However, within three months, the heritage protectors reversed their position and approved the project. The plan remained unchanged.
    The Prague City Hall similarly addressed the matter. The issue ended up with the heritage inspection, which questioned its decision. The house still stands. A part of Barrandov's residents aims to save it from demolition.
    Motejl is now requesting that the decision of the Prague City Hall in the case be annulled and that the entire matter be scheduled for a new hearing.