In Brno, an urban architect office will be established to assist with development

Will Tomáš Ctibor be the main architect?

Brno - The Brno council today approved the establishment of the urban architect's office, which will be responsible for urban development and spatial planning. The new organization is expected to start operating in the first half of next year, said Martin Ander (SZ), the mayor's deputy, to reporters today. The institution will have up to 15 employees. The anticipated contribution from the city budget is expected to be 15 to 20 million. According to Ander, the first tasks will be the initiation of work on a new urban plan and the preparation of a public space concept in Brno.
    Brno had an architect in the past. However, more than a decade ago, it was abolished by the city leadership then headed by ODS. Ander spoke of the necessity to establish the architect position even before last year's elections. "With the approval of the intent to establish the office, we have completed three-quarters of a year of work. Now we will prepare the documents and materials necessary for the establishment of the institution, and in December I would like to present the founding charter at the council meeting," Ander stated.
    In the first months of next year, there should be tenders for key positions to ensure everything can start operating in the spring. "The institution will be a partner to the local government in the area of spatial development, it will have its council, and renowned experts in urbanism and architecture will sit on it. It will lead ongoing discussions with the public and involve citizens in the preparation of the new urban plan," Ander said.
    The urban plan will be the first task of the office. Brno has been governed by an urban plan that is over 20 years old, which does not meet the city's needs in many respects. Last year, the previous council approved a massive update to the urban plan, but at the initiative of activists, the Brno Regional Court annulled it this January due to the unreviewability of some decisions. The city is reworking some non-conflict and necessary changes into the plan. The new urban plan is intended to be created only when the new Principles of Spatial Development of the South Moravian Region, as a superior planning document, are completed.
    According to Ander, the concept of public space development will also be important. "In the reconstruction of streets, pedestrians, cyclists, and local residents should not be overlooked. Along with this, a plan for revitalizing the banks of Brno’s rivers will also be developed to make them more pleasant places to stay and relax," Ander added.