Žamberk announced a competition for a study of the new appearance of Masaryk Square

Zamberk - After a long preparation, Zamberk announced a competition for the architectural study of the new appearance of Masaryk Square. The proposal should give it a modern and functional form while respecting its history and significance for the residents. According to the town hall, the project will influence the appearance of the city center with about 6,000 inhabitants for at least the next 100 years.

"We have been working on this for quite some time. The competition will concern a larger area, including the pedestrian zone and spaces in front of the castle," said Mayor Jiří Mencák (Zamberecká Democratic Coalition) to ČTK.

The condition of the architectural competition is to maintain the possibility of parking and also to protect the old linden trees, which form an important element of the public space. Thus, the competition proposals must seek a sensitive compromise between modernization, functionality, and the preservation of values that people cherish.

According to the town, the square is currently generally neglected. It needs a complete renovation and better organization of the space, most of which is currently occupied by transportation, including parking. A state road I/11 runs through the square, which divides it into two uneven parts and brings up to 10,000 vehicles into the city center daily. A bypass of the city, which would significantly reduce this burden, is expected to be built in ten to 15 years. Also, some surfaces of the square are already worn out and require renewal.

According to the town hall, the proposals should bring a clear vision for the future appearance and flourishing of Masaryk Square and the adjacent areas as the social, cultural, commercial, and historical heart of the city. "They will develop its historical richness and legacy, highlight monuments and other valuable buildings. They will support current visitation, usage, cultural activities, daily 'commercial bustle,' and create an environment for the best possible offer and provision of services," states the competition brief.

Before its announcement, residents had the opportunity to express their opinions and ideas in a survey and during a public discussion. The town incorporated the suggestions into the wording of the competition brief. The most frequently mentioned positives regarding the square were its history, function as a "shopping center," and a place for meeting and events. The square features the town hall building, 19th-century burgher houses, a fountain, and the Marian column from the late 17th century. On the contrary, the negatives included traffic, the appearance and organization of the space, and some missing services, such as gastronomic establishments and outdoor seating.

Competition proposals can be submitted until October 22. The preparation of project documentation will take approximately another two years, followed by exploring funding options for the modifications of the square. According to the town hall, implementation could take place no earlier than in five years. "Due to the complexity of the entire site, this time frame is normal; similarly extensive projects can take more than ten years for preparation," stated the town hall.