The findings so far at the stadium behind Lužánky have proven the areas where a collapse is at risk

Brno - Statics from the Brno University of Technology (VUT) are currently conducting a survey at the football stadium behind Lužánky, which will determine the condition of the building and its future use. The current findings have already evidenced places where there is a risk of collapse. Experts are taking concrete samples mainly from the western part of the structure, which consists of a three-story grandstand with an integrated sports-operational and administrative building. Filip Poňuchálek, spokesman for the Brno city council, said this to ČTK.

According to Pavel Schmid from the Institute of Structural Testing at VUT, the current findings demonstrate a significant heterogeneity in the structure of the concrete of the load-bearing constructions and its problematic durability, especially with regard to the climatic influences acting upon it. "Inspections at the current stage of the survey have already proven critical areas where there is a real risk of spontaneous collapse of concrete fragments or even partial sections of the structure," he said.

In further stages of the diagnostic work, experts will focus on identifying the character and methods of reinforcement of critical structural elements with concrete reinforcement and determining the extent of corrosion. The samples taken are awaiting laboratory analyses of mechanical and physical properties, including chemical analyses. Their aim is to establish the current values of real material parameters directly related to the assessment of the remaining lifespan of the stadium.

"A comprehensive evaluation of the findings from the extensive building materials and structural survey will be a fundamental and realistic basis for proposing an effective and economically rational decision regarding the future use of the existing facility," added Poňuchálek. The assessment is expected to be completed in August.

The stadium behind Lužánky still holds the attendance record for the highest football league. In October 1996, 44,120 spectators attended the match Brno – Slavia. The last league match there was played in September 2001. Since then, the stadium has been deteriorating. The leadership of Brno stated at the end of February that due to its dilapidated condition, it will have to be demolished.