Ostrava is dealing with how to temporarily revive the undeveloped area in the center

Ostrava – The undeveloped area near Masaryk Square in the center of Ostrava could significantly change its appearance by next year. The location could feature sales points, a so-called food zone, and a relaxation area. The city is currently determining whether there would be interest in such a concept. This was stated today by the mayor's deputy Zuzana Bajgarová (ANO).

The temporary use of the area is expected to last approximately five years. The city still envisions that the area will be built upon in the future. "We commissioned an architectural design that treats the space as an area intended for the construction of some object, as it was in the past," Bajgarová stated.

The area could temporarily host mobile and removable structures, which can vary in material type, appearance, and color, or can be covered in greenery. "For the model to work, it needs to have some operational aspect; there must be interested parties in operating in the food zone and vendors who would like to sell there," Bajgarová noted.

A private company with experience in a similar concept in Prague is now preparing a potential sales model with possible users for the city. The city will only decide whether to proceed with the project based on this input. It should be available within a few weeks. According to current estimates, the temporary transformation of the area could cost between 15 and 20 million crowns. The city is also considering the option of merely renting the sales modules, which would reduce the project's costs.

According to the city's vision, the sales points could serve, for instance, for selling flowers, handicrafts, or design products, and similar items. "Surrounding operators could also potentially extend part of their operations to that food zone. We definitely do not want pajamas and similar items to be sold there," added Bajgarová.

The area in question is bordered by Dlouhá, Zámecká, 28. října, and Masaryk Square. A larger portion should be occupied by the relaxation zone, and the space could be used in the summer for screenings and other activities. In winter, a skating rink, similar to in the past, would operate in the location. An information service should also have its base there. However, the exact form will only be determined by the upcoming operational model. If the city decides to implement the project, the area could take on a changed form by next summer.