Opava has started to modify the area behind the shopping center Slezanka

Opava - Opava has started to modify the area behind the unsightly and not fully utilized shopping center Slezanka in the city center. Currently, new sidewalks are being built, and green areas are being arranged. City spokesperson Lada Dobrovolná told ČTK. It is unclear what will happen next with the area where the park is located. According to one study, the shopping center is to be demolished, the space is to be developed, and a municipal market could arise here. Another plan considers preserving the building and renovating it.

The costs for the modifications in the courtyard behind Slezanka will be around two million crowns. "We want to finally begin specific steps that will lead to the reclamation of this area. We are drawing on public opinion, which has clearly indicated in surveys that as much greenery as possible should remain here," said Mayor Radim Křupala (ČSSD).

The construction company has already started removing the original asphalt-concrete sidewalks, including the concrete base. All street lighting poles, including fixtures, will also be replaced. The green spaces will also be modified. "There will also be new furniture, i.e., benches and park bins. In part of the courtyard near Popská Street, we have identified a place for the construction of an interactive children's playground, where we would like to include water features. This plan is currently being discussed," the mayor added. According to him, the work will finish this fall.

The modifications only affect areas that are not in conflict with the city's plan to develop part of the land with new apartment buildings. However, the further use of the parcels is not clear. A study commissioned by the city last year addressed not only the Slezanka building but also the free park behind it. The proposal includes the demolition of the building with shops and the construction of a covered market and 16 apartment buildings. The total cost is estimated to be around 712 million. However, not all councilors agreed with this plan.

Therefore, the city commissioned a second study that would address the renovation of Slezanka and its use. The repair would cost 68 million. Shops should remain in the building, and the use of the roof is also considered. There, architects have suggested, for example, the establishment of a bar, a sports playground, or an outdoor cinema.

The Slezanka shopping center is a panel building constructed on the site of ancient brewing houses from the 17th century. The block takes on a prefabricated housing form that connects to the historic development of the center and borders on a Gothic church. The building has long been problematic for the municipality. The previous city leadership purchased the building in the central Horní náměstí square in 2008 from a private owner. At that time, city representatives expressed their willingness to invest in the renovation of the building or its demolition and the construction of a new center. The city took out a loan of 270 million crowns to pay the purchase price.