The reconstruction of the winter stadium in Jihlava may begin in the middle of the year 2009

Jihlava - In the middle of next year, the long-awaited reconstruction of the long-standing Horácký Winter Stadium in Jihlava is set to begin. Within less than two years, a multifunctional hall is to be created, primarily serving the needs of the first league hockey team Dukla. The hall will meet parameters that also comply with extraleague requirements, and without restrictions, it can serve all other indoor sports, as well as hosting concerts or social events. This was stated today by the manager of HC Dukla Jihlava, Bedřich Ščerban.
Hockey matches and other sports events will be able to accommodate around 5,000 spectators, while the capacity for concerts will increase by an additional 500 viewers. On the upper level of the entrance from Smetanovy sady, there will be space for food stalls and promotional items around the entire perimeter of the hall. "On the site of the current second ice rink, a training hall will be built, under which there will be a three-story underground parking lot with a capacity of 240 spaces," said the designer Vladimír Žák.
According to Ščerban, it will depend on the agreement with the contractor resulting from the tender whether the reconstruction will take place all at once or in phases. "A phased approach would increase the construction costs by about 20 million crowns, while approximately the same costs would arise from securing an alternative ice surface for all teams," Ščerban stated.
The total costs of the reconstruction are expected to reach approximately 650 million crowns. These should be covered by European grants; according to Ščerban, the city and the Vysočina region should also contribute. The multifunctional hall is expected to provide visitors with a cultured environment, according to city representatives and Dukla management.
The hockey players of Dukla Jihlava have won 12 championship titles and are the most successful Czech club in history. The best years for Dukla were in the late 60s and early 80s when they were also the main suppliers of players to the national team.
The Horácký Stadium was built between 1954 and 1955. It was roofed in 1967, and in 1989, an outdoor rink and gym were added. After a renovation completed in 1997, the stadium can also be used for concerts or trade exhibitions after the removal of the boards. The outdoor rink is also multifunctional.

> Study of Horácký Winter Stadium