The largest square in Pardubice awaits another stage of renewal.

Pardubice - Dukelských hrdinů Square in Pardubice, which was created in the 1950s and is the largest in the city, will undergo further reconstruction in the coming years. It will follow the first phase from the previous electoral term and will focus on greenery. Jiří Rejda (ANO), the mayor of the city district, stated this to ČTK. According to an opposition representative, the square deserves a complete overhaul; parking should be on the sides, not in the middle.

In 2017, reconstruction of the central part was completed, replacing the old concrete area with a square paved with granite cubes. It continues to serve as a parking lot. The parking area is surrounded by flower pots and movable concrete square blocks that can be relocated during public events. These take place several times a year, such as Advent celebrations or military parades.

The reconstruction cost 12 million crowns. Until then, the square from 1955 had not undergone any significant reconstruction. It was a time and cost-effective investment. For example, the underground parking garage that politicians proposed in the past would have cost much more.

On the square, there are relaxation areas on two sides with benches, bushes, trees, and monuments, one dedicated to the first aviator Jan Kašpar and the other to Czechoslovak pilots and paratroopers. The city district intends to focus on the small parks and their restoration in the current electoral term, the mayor said.

Paths across the park should lead in a cross shape, as this is how people walk through the area. Currently, the paths are around the edge, and people walk across the lawn. "We want to remove some of the sidewalks around, expand the greenery to the sides. At the same time, we want to preserve the trees that are mature and have some value. We have not yet agreed with the architect’s department; we will make changes to the project. I want to communicate this across the political spectrum in the district. There are 15 councilors here; we should do what is best for the citizens," said Rejda.

Opposition councilor Jakub Kutílek (Greens and Pirates) suggests changing the concept of the square. "Historically, the square area has transformed into a parking lot. It would be better to have an entirely new concept before we dive into further adjustments of the square. Parking spaces could be around the perimeter of the square, which would be more functional, and cars would be closer to homes and shops located there," said Kutílek.

Even though celebrations and other events occasionally occur in the square, it is predominantly a parking lot. The center of the square could serve a different function year-round, noted Kutílek. "The area would need to be complemented with greenery and a water feature to make the stay pleasant," the councilor remarked.

According to Kutílek, removing sidewalks around the parks at the sides of the square is not always effective, as people always seek the shortest path, and they would walk across the lawn from the bus stop, for instance. However, he appreciates that the district leadership wants to preserve the trees, he added.