Holešov is preparing a extensive renovation of the greenery in the castle park

Holešov - The town hall in Holešov, in the Kroměříž region, is preparing a comprehensive renewal of greenery in the castle park. The tree felling will affect dozens of over-aged trees in the enclosure at its rear, which pose a threat to passersby and cyclists. Instead, the city will plant young trees. The town hall has already completed a study, and work could begin next year, with some possibly starting this year, said Mayor Rudolf Seifert (TOP 09) to ČTK.

"Especially around the bike path to Dobrotice, and possibly even inside the enclosure, there are trees that are really falling down constantly. They even fall on the allotment garden, and branches pose a threat to people. It often happens when stronger winds arise, and we warn people that they are walking there at their own risk," stated Seifert. According to him, town hall representatives are consulting the planned interventions with heritage conservationists.

The gradual renewal of greenery in the park will take several years. "We want to revive the enclosure and tidy it up, but we must proceed sensitively. There will be several stages, so that the trees can grow. The estimated costs are in the millions of crowns," the mayor said.

The study also includes proposed adjustments to the areas in front of the castle. In one of the upcoming electoral periods, the greenery there should be renewed, and new sidewalks and footpaths built, which will contribute to better connection between the castle and the city center. The town hall also wants to move some cultural events in front of the castle, or to its southern wing. "We have a big problem that most of the huge cultural events, such as the Holešov Regatta, the Drásal Bike Marathon, the veterans' meeting, and others, are directed toward the ponds and the castle garden, which are the most valuable areas," Seifert stated.

The castle in Holešov was built in 1574 on the site of a former Gothic fortress from the 15th century, part of which has been preserved in the castle. Since then, it has been remodeled several times. In the first half of the 18th century, a large French-style park of 62 hectares was created around it. It includes a system of water channels shaped like Neptune's trident. In 1948, the castle was nationalized; in 1992, the monument was returned to a private owner through restitution. The Holešov town hall purchased the castle from her in 2005 for 13.4 million crowns and has been gradually renovating it since then.