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

The reconstruction of the former Hotel Opatov in Prague's South Town, which the Prague City Hall began last year, is likely to become more expensive due to necessary changes to the building's layout. Deputy Mayor Alexandra Udženija (ODS) announced today that the original tendered costs for the reconstruction amounted to CZK 688.9 million excluding VAT. City councillors decided today to set up a working group to look into the use of non-residential space in the building, the division of flats and parking.

According to Udženije, about 650 Prague residents will find housing in the building after the completion of the works in spring 2025 in 272 flats, of which 68 will be 1-bedroom flats, 152 will be 2-bedroom flats, 35 will be three-bedroom flats and 17 will be four-bedroom flats.

The projected increase in the price of the work is related to the modifications of the layout of the original small hotel rooms into larger apartments, which make more sense for urban rental housing. Because of the modifications, it was also necessary to intervene in the load-bearing elements of the structure, according to Udzhenyi. "The cost will be higher, but no one could tell me by how much yet," the deputy said.

City councillors today approved the creation of a working group, which will include politicians or representatives of the authority and experts. The group will first look at the use of non-residential space in the renovated building. "Our reasoning is that there should definitely be a doctors' office or social services there," Udzhenija said. She said there should have been a restaurant in the large space, but the group may reconsider that with local residents in mind. The group is to present its conclusions on the issue to the city administration by December 20 this year so that it can instruct the company Hochtief CZ, which is doing the reconstruction, on the basis of those conclusions.

In addition, the working group will also look at parking for residents and how rental flats are allocated. According to Udženije, the building should have a balanced ratio of tenants from city-supported professions, the socially disadvantaged, the elderly or young families.

The nearby former Sandra hostel is to be used for similar purposes as the Hotel Opatov in the future. The building is owned and renovated by Prague 11 since 2019. The building will house office space, a hall for cultural events or council meetings, a restaurant and 174 new flats. They should primarily serve young families, seniors, teachers, doctors, firefighters, municipal police officers and nurses.

Source: CTK
Photo: panelaky.info