Reconstruction of the former Hotel Opatov in Prague is likely to become more expensive

Prague – The reconstruction of the former Opatov hotel in South City, which the Prague city council started last year, is likely to become more expensive due to necessary adjustments to the layout of the building. This was stated to journalists today by Deputy Mayor Alexandra Udženija (ODS). The originally contracted costs for the reconstruction amount to 688.9 million crowns excluding VAT. How much the costs will increase is not yet clear according to the deputy.

After the completion of the work in spring 2025, approximately 650 Prague residents will find housing in the building, according to Udženija, in 272 apartments, of which 68 will be 1+kk, 152 will be 2+kk, 35 apartments will have three rooms, and 17 will have four rooms.

The anticipated increase in costs is related to the adjustments of the original small hotel rooms into larger apartments, which make more sense for urban rental housing. Due to these modifications, it was necessary to make interventions in the load-bearing elements of the structure according to Udženija. "The costs will be higher, but so far no one has been able to tell me by how much," the deputy said.

City councilors today approved the establishment of a working group that will include politicians and representatives of the office and experts. Initially, the group will focus on the use of non-residential spaces in the reconstructed building. "Our consideration is that there should definitely be a doctor's office or social services there," Udženija said. In the extensive space, there was supposed to be a restaurant, but the group might reconsider that with regard to local residents. The group is to present conclusions on this issue to the city management by December 20 of this year, so that based on them, the firm Hochtief CZ, which is handling the reconstruction, can be instructed.

In addition, the working group will also address parking for residents and the method of allocating rental apartments. According to Udženija, there should be a balanced ratio of tenants from city-supported professions, socially disadvantaged individuals, seniors, and young families in the building.

The nearby former Sandra hostel is also intended for similar purposes as the Opatov Hotel in the future. The property is owned and being reconstructed by Prague 11 since 2019. The building is expected to house office spaces, a hall for cultural events or council meetings, a restaurant, and 174 new apartments. These are primarily intended for young families, seniors, teachers, doctors, firefighters, city police officers, and nurses.