The new complex of the Czech Mint is set to cost at least 150 million CZK

Jablonec nad Nisou - The planned construction of a new production facility in Jablonec nad Nisou will cost the Czech Mint at least 150 million crowns, into which it wants to relocate production from rented spaces in Jablonex. The main task is to secure financing, preferably from a developer. The mint plans to repay the construction costs over 15 to 20 years, which will allow it to invest in new technologies or machinery if needed. On the occasion of signing a trilateral cooperation agreement with the Liberec Region and Jablonec, the director of the mint, Radek Šulta, told reporters.
    The new mint is expected to rise in Jablonec on the site of an unused complex of the former maternity hospital. The buildings belong to the Liberec Region, which no longer needs them. The century-old building has been for sale since 2011, with the region originally asking for 25 million crowns, but no offers were received, leading to a later price reduction to 18 million crowns. There was only one interested party, but ultimately they did not pay. "We are glad that such a good investor has been found for the utilization of the former maternity hospital,” noted Governor Martin Půta (STAN). The mint now has until the end of 2016 to secure financing for this expensive project.
    The Czech Mint has been based in Jablonec since 1993. In rented premises, where the company operates today with a turnover of more than half a billion and 75 employees, the administrative and production parts are separated. "The company has started to perform better and deserves a better environment," said Šulta. According to him, the new facility should meet the parameters for minting the Czech euro, if that ever happens. "We also want the mint to be more open. There will be a tour route created that should show visitors 90 percent of the production, and people will also be able to try some activities,” the director explained.
    The planned project will require a change in the zoning plan, but the construction of the new plant will be a great benefit for Jablonec. "I see several positive things - especially strengthening cooperation with the Czech Mint, which is a prestigious business and the only one where Czech coins are minted,” said Jablonec Mayor Petr Beitl (ODS). According to him, a sore spot at the entrance to the city will also be resolved, where a modern and interesting production facility will rise in place of dilapidated buildings. "The new mint will also be a significant tourist attraction; I believe this operation could draw many new visitors to Jablonec,” added the Jablonec mayor.