Liberec Region wants to buy VÚTS, its modifications will cost millions

Liberec - The Liberec Region is preparing to buy the former VÚTS building (former Research Institute of Textile Machines) next to the regional office. For the buildings and land covering more than 11,000 m², it will pay nearly 125 million crowns. However, it will have to invest tens of millions more into modernization. The SIAL architects estimated the costs at 230 million crowns years ago. This estimate included a restaurant and luxurious offices for the political leadership of the region. This was stated today by Deputy Governor for the Environment Josef Jadrný (Change for the Liberec Region).
    The complex consists of two buildings; the first is an administrative building with garages and a car workshop, while the second, significantly larger building is the former semi-operation of VÚTS. The intention to buy the buildings and land was approved by regional representatives at the end of June, and next week they will approve the purchase agreement. Today, they could inspect the buildings to ensure they are "not buying a pig in a poke." There were two tours, but interest among the regional representatives was minimal. Five attended the first tour last week, and four attended today.
    The region does not want to use the buildings for the expansion of its office; it wants to relocate its organizations there, and the former administrative building will host the so-called European House, where applicants will find all European subsidy providers in one place, such as CzechInvest, the Regional Operational Program, or the Euroregion Neisse. This intention will also be approved by the representatives next week. The region has a chance to secure funding for the European House's equipment and necessary construction modifications this year. "European houses are being prepared by all regions and the European Union supports this," noted Jadrný. According to him, the region could also receive funding for insulation and window replacement.
    The Liberec Region is headquartered in its own building on U Jezu Street in the city center. It owns a high-rise building and part of an adjacent three-story building. The remaining part of the complex and other properties, including the land, belonged to VÚTS. However, they built a new complex in the Liberec business and industrial zone Sever, and most of the building has been empty for a year and a half. Acquiring the complex will ensure better access to the regional office and parking for clients. "It should also be said that the surroundings of the regional office do not look their best today; the goal is the revitalization of the entire area," said Governor Martin Půta (STAN) to ČTK earlier.