In Jirkov, the reconstruction of the former Hotel Praha into a cultural center has begun

Jirkov (Chomutov District) - This week, work began in Jirkov on the reconstruction of the unused Hotel Praha and the neighboring former music club Beltine, which after renovation will become the new cultural center. The city management expects to open it in the autumn, replacing the already inadequate and overly expensive cultural facility in the Nové Ervěnice district, said city hall spokesman Luboš Mizun to ČTK.
    The contract was awarded to the construction company Intermont Opatrný from nearby Vrskman. "The completion deadline is October 15. In case of delays, the city would impose a contractual penalty, which is set at 10,000 crowns for each additional day," Mizun stated.
    The city paid 24 million crowns to the Chomutov construction company ABC for the two properties and land, and necessary modifications will require another 15 million crowns. Initially, however, they were supposed to cost only a third, that is five million crowns.
    "Among several concepts, the lavish one eventually won. It is a fact that it will be expensive, but it is an investment for decades to come. We managed to involve several sponsors and obtain various grants, so the increase compared to expectations will not be so significant," added Mayor Radek Štejnar (ČSSD).
    The work includes setting up facilities for performers and visitors, expanding the dance floor, new wall paneling, increasing seating capacity, and completely replacing the lighting, including the installation of two large glass chandeliers in the main hall. "A passenger elevator will be built, the project also includes a new sound system and stage technology. Accessibility is a given," Mizun added.
    In the new cultural center, the city hall plans to host both representative and graduation balls, theatrical performances, as well as concerts of popular music. Such productions are not possible in the spaces of the beloved Červený hrádek Castle, which is also owned by the city.