In the Beneshov barracks, the construction of apartments could begin next year

Benešov - In the former Tábor barracks in Benešov, the construction of apartments for seniors and young families could begin next year. A private investor wants to build new housing for 700 people on the site of the main barrack building, which is to be demolished. The structure, measuring nearly 150 meters in length, is, according to Mayor Petr Hostek (ČSSD), in poor condition, and its renovation would be more expensive than building a new one.

However, some councilors disagree with the demolition of the so-called big palace, pointing out that it is a city landmark known from old postcards. The mayor argues that the building is not a heritage site and that its technical solution is reflective of the second half of the 19th century and the purpose for which it was built. Additionally, the original ornate facade is chipped, and the building currently has plastic windows. "I have to laugh when someone says it has historical value and that it is a gem of the city," the mayor stated.

According to Deputy Mayor Jiří Švadlena (ANO), the costs for renovation were estimated ten years ago at 100 million crowns. "Today it would be an additional 20 to 50 million more," Švadlena pointed out. Hostek noted that it is not possible to renovate the building when nothing is known about its future purpose. He recalled that in the past, investors lost interest in the property after touring the interior, where there are high four-meter ceilings.

The investor who wants to build apartments is, according to Hostek, willing to bear the costs of demolition. The councilors have not yet approved the project, only deciding that the city leadership can negotiate the intention. The new building is also expected to include a doctor's office, a hairdresser, and a café. In addition to housing for seniors, there are plans for starter apartments for young people, which, according to Hostek, will lead to a useful mixing of generations. "Young and old meet, new relationships are formed, and almost new families come into being," he said.

Benešov has pushed dozens of homeless people out of the more than twenty-five-hectare barracks complex, forcing them to move elsewhere, and has had some smaller buildings demolished. In the transformation of the area, the city must adhere to the valid zoning plan. In addition to the construction of apartments, the creation of a recreation center is also planned.