The reconstruction of the Cheb Dragoun market is nearing completion

Cheb - The redevelopment of the Cheb Dragoun complex, former barracks and later one of the largest markets in western Bohemia, is nearing completion. Although the investment of approximately 850 million was accompanied by problems, according to Mayor Jan Svoboda, the investor has essentially fulfilled what he promised, he told reporters today.
    "The city has been dealing with the Dragoun issue for several years. When we announced the tender for its sale, we had three offers. Two of them assumed that the market would remain on the site. Only one offered an alternative solution," said Svoboda.
    The city sold the complex in the center of the city in 2007 to Jaroslav Třešňák. He promised to demolish the buildings and build an Interspar, OBI, and a shopping center with shops where Vietnamese traders could also sell, but in a civilized environment.
    "The fact is that the Vietnamese sellers are adapting their spaces in their own way and finishing various constructions there. We have negotiated with them several times, and we are now also working with the fire brigade. Hopefully, it will be resolved," admitted the investor's representative Gabriela Hlavsová today.
    The complex is otherwise nearing completion. Interspar is already in operation, and only the last five shops are left to rent. OBI is also under construction, and according to Hlavsová, the building will likely be handed over to the chain this week. "The opening is expected around mid-July," Hlavsová stated.
    Třešňák deposited bonds totaling 180 million crowns as security when purchasing the complex. According to Svoboda, he has fulfilled his obligations, which the bonds covered. "Nevertheless, I want to leave the decision on the return of the bonds to the city council," added Svoboda.
    Negotiations between the city and the investor will continue. Delays compared to promised deadlines will allow the city to negotiate changes that were not in the original plans. Moreover, Třešňák is planning further constructions in the complex. In the coming years, a high-rise office building could be built there. Near the complex, Třešňák has obtained land from the city for the construction of residential buildings.
    According to Svoboda, while opinions on the suitability of placing a shopping center in the city center vary, he believes that the redevelopment of Dragoun has brought the main positive aspect of opening the previously closed area with the Asian market and making it a normal part of the city.