In Havlíčkův Brod, a panel building close to the center may be demolished

Havlíčkův Brod - A four-story panel building may be demolished in Havlíčkův Brod, right next to the historic center. The residential building near the memorial Havlíček House spoils the view of the old buildings. The plan for its demolition is part of the planned revitalization of Smetanova Square, which was damaged by panel construction. If alternative housing for the tenants can be secured, the demolition of the building could take place as early as next year, councilor Libor Honzárek (TOP 09) said to journalists today.
     The building, which belongs to the city, contains 18 apartments. Some of them are vacant. "This panel building has been the subject of considerable criticism from almost all expert studies conducted on Smetanova Square," Honzárek justified the proposal. The demolition of the building was recommended by a commission that has been dealing with the renewal of Smetanova Square for two years. The city council is expected to discuss this point in mid-June. According to the councilor's estimation, the demolition could cost between three and five million crowns.
     The city hall is now negotiating relocation with the tenants. "I think that after the first heated discussion we had with them in October last year, we have already found a cooperative approach," Honzárek believes. According to him, the city is trying to help people find new apartments that would suit them.
     No other use for the site where the panel building stands has been determined yet. According to Honzárek, there are several options. One of them is to leave the land empty. Another consideration is to build a facility for cultural events. "This space is very valuable; it should wait for quality development," he added.
     The controversial building stands between two squares in the center of Brod, the historic Havlíčkův and Smetanovo, which is dominated by panel construction. Smetanova Square took on its current appearance in the 1970s. It was created in the place of the historic horse market, where old houses were systematically demolished. The revitalization of the entire Smetanova Square will likely cost tens of millions. The city hall would like to secure grants for it in the future, as it succeeded in the case of Havlíčkovo Square, whose restoration was completed this month.