Noise has completed the transformation of the former Penkov farmstead into a space for gathering and culture

Hluk - Hluk in the Uherskohradišť region has completed the transformation of the former Penek's farm into a space for meeting and culture. The dilapidated complex has been replaced by a park with water features, an amphitheater, playgrounds, and a community garden. The city hall also modified the surrounding roads and sidewalks, and additional parking spaces were created. The costs reached 85 million crowns, with a subsidy from the Integrated Regional Operational Program amounting to approximately 50 million, a representative of the four-thousand-strong city told ČTK today.

"We wanted a place that had been a problem for the city center for decades to become a space that truly serves people. A place where children, families, seniors, athletes, and visitors to cultural events can meet. Today, the former neglected area is one of the most beautiful parts of Hluk's center," said Mayor David Hájek (independent for ODS).

The improved space combines several functions. The quiet area consists of park greenery, a small pond, and other water features that, according to the city hall, help enhance the environment and cool the city center on hot days. There is also an amphitheater and facilities for organizing cultural and social events. Visitors can also use a kiosk with refreshments, a children's playground, or a workout zone. A community garden has also been created. School children will take care of it together with residents of the senior house.

The former farm is reminiscent of preserved parts of the original masonry. This location is among the historically oldest parts of Hluk. Mentions of its burning by raiders are known from the early 15th century. In the last century, it housed a farming estate with livestock, and after 1994, the city used the premises as a base for technical services.

However, the complex gradually lost its use, and part of it eventually served as a dump. "The buildings gradually fell into disrepair, and some parts already posed a safety risk. Where a neglected complex stood just two years ago, there is now a modern open park intended for the public," said Deputy Mayor Ondřej Kotačka (independent for Obudíme Hluk).

The city also invested in the adjoining public space and transport infrastructure. Builders reconstructed Sokolská and Kostelní streets, where new sidewalks were created. Speed-reducing elements were added, and motorists now have access to 48 new parking spaces. "It did not make sense to create a beautiful park and leave the surrounding roads unrepaired with a lack of parking. As a result, this whole part of the center has been transformed,” added the deputy mayor.

The city hall is preparing a ceremonial opening of the renovated space for Saturday. The program, which will include music and theater, will start at 15:00. Details are available on the city’s website.