At Halas Square, there will be fewer cars and more greenery according to the study

Brno - Fewer cars, more greenery, and new sidewalks and spaces for pedestrians. This is how Halasovo náměstí in the Lesná housing estate could change according to a new urban study by the Office of the Architect of the City of Brno, stated the office's spokesperson Jana Běhalová in a press release.

"This is an area that was not completed according to the original plans, and now it is necessary to find a new solution. That is why we have developed an urban study that will give the square a clear identity," said the director of the Office of the Architect of the City of Brno, Michal Sedláček. According to him, the current form of the square is inadequate.

The changes mainly concern the area in front of the polyclinic and the parking lot in front of the supermarket. A pedestrian route connects both places. A relaxation zone in the form of a city garden is set to be created in front of the polyclinic, while the parking lot will have space for seasonal markets and other public activities.

The study aims to preserve about a third of the original parking spaces, with plans for a multi-purpose parking garage and parking in front of the Tesla sports hall. "If we create new parking spaces directly in front of Tesla and on the surrounding roads, we will ensure enough parking spots," said David Mikulášek, head of the Public Space Department at the Office of the Architect of the City of Brno.

The Brno-North municipality is fond of the plan. "I believe that some of this, ideally all of it, can be realized," said Mayor Martin Maleček (Association of Citizens of Lesná) to ČTK. However, the municipality's condition is that all changes be made with regard to the preservation of parking spaces in the area. "As a municipal district, we have clearly stated that this must be taken into account," stated Maleček.

The reconstruction of the square is expected to begin in the next three to five years. The Office of the Architect proposes to divide the construction into six phases due to the large area and the need for cooperation with private investors. The reconstruction of the former furniture store and marketplace will be prioritized. New tree avenues will also be created.

Halasovo náměstí is part of one of the largest Brno housing estates, Lesná. The original urban concept of the estate from the 1960s led to the creation of many open and green spaces, as well as artistic elements in public spaces. However, what architects did not anticipate at the time was the current massive development of automobile traffic.