Plzeň will process a zoning plan within two years, divided into 245 locations

Plzeň - The division of Plzeň into 245 locations according to local identity and the structure of development is the main motto for the preparation of the new urban plan for the city. It is to be approved in autumn 2014 and to be valid for 20 years. Another goal is to emphasize the densification of the inner city. The plan must be clear and usable, which is why the public is being involved in an exceptional manner, Irena Králová from the department of conception and development said today at the 5th annual fair of construction and investment opportunities FINPEX.
    "These are compositional units of the city that have the same character or type of development, for example, the area of family houses in old Košutka or the Bolevec housing estate. It has not been divided this way before," she added. This is intended to create a greater sense of belonging among locals and to better describe what the development should look like, including which houses and at what height. For example, for the Bolevec housing estate, it will be indicated that residential buildings can still be built in the northeastern part; or in the area where the ruins of old Bolevec are, it will be possible to add three family houses according to the specified parameters.
    Potential investors and architects welcome the more detailed plan. "Previously we had an urban plan and then more detailed documentation. So we needed two documents," said Králová.
    The city no longer wants Plzeň to develop in a sprawling manner into the surrounding municipalities, which deepens the problems in the center, making it less attractive to residents and visitors. "We don't want new family houses towards Chotíkov and Zruč, with no interest in urban areas leading to their deterioration. In all western areas of the Czech Republic, city centers are sought-after destinations," Králová stated. The city hall wants to fill in gaps and renovate unused buildings. It will not push for it, but will offer them in an offensive manner. "The urban plan will force investors because there won't be as many development areas for new housing," she added. Plzeň currently does not have a need for new development areas due to a lack of investors. The new plan continues to maintain a green belt around the city, allowing it to transition smoothly into the countryside.
    In the urban planning competition for the shape of the inner city, the concept department found two partners for the development of the urban plan, the architectural office of Roman Koucký and the MOBA studio.
    The previous plan was approved in 1995 and was valid for 15 years. The city updated it every two years. The new plan, being prepared for 1.5 years, is consulting with the public beyond the urban planning framework. The first seminar was in June, the next ones will be on November 6 and 29, and January 17. The draft plan should be completed by April 2013 and discussed with the relevant authorities and municipal districts by December. At the beginning of 2014, it will be assessed by the region, and by July, the public review will be completed, including the evaluation of comments.