Protest action for the change of Vsetín Square attracted hundreds of people

Vsetín - A few hundred people were attracted this afternoon to a protest event in Vsetín's Freedom Square, which aimed to highlight the dissatisfaction of residents with the appearance of the city center. It sparked interest among people and discussions; we learned a lot of information from the city's leadership and have scheduled a meeting, said Klára Bažantová, the organizer of the peaceful event titled Liberate the Square.
    People also heeded the call of the organizers and brought flowers, various products, and food to participate in a picnic on the artificial grass, enlivening the square and brightening the city center with flowers.
    The organizers' appeal, as well as many residents of the city, do not like that there is a lack of greenery and resting places in the city center; additionally, they believe that the square is covered by an unsuitable gravel surface.
    The leadership of Vsetín town hall had previously indicated that they wanted to change the appearance of Freedom Square. The area was reconstructed last year, but people protested mainly against the new natural gravel surface of the square. According to the city management, gravel was used because it was significantly cheaper compared to other building materials or grassy surfaces.
    The design was approved back in 2008, and the current city leadership did not have the opportunity to intervene in the project. "We all agree that the square is not what we expected," said Mayor Iveta Táborská earlier. The city is now negotiating with architects about changing the surface and other repairs in the square.
    The organizers of today's protest appreciated that the city leadership also attended and explained their plans to the people. "The mayor was here for about three hours and spoke with people. We'll see what our meeting brings. The main purpose, to spark discussion, was achieved by the event," remarked Bažantová.