Benešov is preparing to demolish the barracks building, which the people agreed to in a referendum

Benešov - Benešov is preparing to demolish the main building of the former Táborské barracks, a decision made last week by local residents in a referendum. The city has commissioned the preparation of documentation for the application to remove the building, and government authorities must express their opinions on the plan. So far, the municipal office has obtained consent regarding environmental issues. The estimated costs for the demolition are around 14 million crowns excluding VAT, as reported today by the municipal spokesperson Tereza Lípová. The city intends to build a primary school at the site of the original structure.

In the referendum, 53.78 percent of eligible voters participated, with 65.95 percent voting in favor of demolishing the building. The results are valid and binding. City leaders were concerned that the demolition of the so-called big palace would become a controversial issue in Benešov. They pointed out that it is a landmark known from old postcards. That's why they let the people vote on the plan. "The referendum result indicates the direction for the further development of this significant location," stated Mayor Jaroslav Hlavnička (Choice for Benešov).

The rubble from the demolished building will remain on the site, partially used as material for future transportation projects. The city wants to build a primary school in place of the original structure. The main barracks building is structurally sound, but it is not suitable for classrooms due to the ceiling height and window size.

The design of the new school will result from an architectural competition that the municipality will announce. The city administration will further consider the competition's brief, and the capacity of the facility should take into account the expected gradual increase in the population of Benešov and the surrounding municipalities. According to a recently developed demographic study, the city's population is expected to rise to more than 20,000 by 2050 from the current 17,000, making the need for a new school very pressing. The anticipated increase in population is related to planned construction in the areas of Kavčín, Sladovka-east, Za Nádražím II, and precisely at the site of the Táborské barracks. These projects alone could bring up to 6,200 residents, including approximately 900 school-aged children, according to the municipality.

Residential construction has already begun in part of the Táborské barracks, following a regulatory plan. The 25-hectare area will also include civic amenities. In addition to the school, a kindergarten, a parking garage, and sports facilities are also expected to be developed in the brownfield site.