Praha 1 wants to increase the number of apartments. It will convert offices

Prague - The city district of Prague 1 wants to increase the number of apartments in its area by converting suitable non-residential spaces, such as offices and studios. This was stated by the mayor of the first city district, Oldřich Lomecký (TOP 09), at today's press conference. The council approved the announcement of the intention to lease non-residential spaces at the last meeting, which interested parties who submit the highest bid will be able to convert into apartments at their own expense and subsequently purchase under favorable conditions.
    According to Lomecký, the first city district has been facing a reduction in residential space for almost 15 years, as owners gradually convert it into more profitable offices, studios, and other non-residential spaces. In connection with this, the number of residents in the area is decreasing, according to the mayor. "We have fallen below the threshold of 30,000 residents, which is an absolutely alarming number," Lomecký pointed out. The city leadership no longer permits further conversions of apartments into offices or the conversion of entire buildings into hotels.
    The first city district has already identified several units that would be suitable for conversion. The city will initially offer spaces in Růžová, Mezibranská, Křemencova, and Biskupská streets, among others. According to Lomecký, there will be more in the future, potentially in the order of dozens.
    However, the town hall does not have enough funds for the actual conversion. Therefore, it will offer the spaces for lease, which will be conditioned on the conversion into apartments. The tenant should prepare the apartment for recertification within two years. "They will be required to renovate the premises using their own resources. This will then be taken into account during the transfer and sale to the respective party. For the time they live there, they will pay standard rent," said the mayor, who stated that this plan is one of the few ways to revitalize the city center with more residential spaces. "We cannot carry out any major housing construction here anymore. Prague 1 is already a fully developed area. If it's a space suitable and adaptable for housing, the city district should strive for it," Lomecký added.