To repair the cultural house in Příbram, 175 million CZK would be needed

Příbram - The repair of the Příbram cultural center would require nearly 175 million crowns. The city has prepared a project for the complete reconstruction of the small stage, but according to the city hall, a comprehensive extensive renovation of the heritage-protected building is currently beyond its capabilities. During today's visit, Minister of Culture Antonín Staněk (ČSSD) partially pledged assistance. Along with Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO), they emphasized that the state cannot pay for the reconstruction on behalf of the city.

The complex from the 1950s consists of a large, small, and club stage, a cinema, and a large social hall. It also includes a restaurant, café, and hotel. Staněk and Babiš acknowledged that the building is in poor condition. According to the minister, repairs should start as soon as possible. "We are ready, if a rational perspective and rational budget are presented, to look at where we can help," stated Staněk. He added that this will be a matter for further discussions, but the city cannot expect the ministry to send it the entire amount.

Babiš believes that local governments have more and more money, and he would be unhappy if Staněk raised great expectations in Příbram. He pointed out that needs exist elsewhere as well, and the city could also take out a loan for the repairs. Mayor Jindřich Vařeka (ANO) recalled that there are other projects in Příbram, and the city is also planning a loan for the reconstruction of the water park.

The reconstruction of the small stage will cost 30 million crowns, and the same amount will be needed for the replacement of large metal windows. The costs for the facade repair are estimated at 20 million, and another 15 million crowns will be needed for the refurbishment of the interiors. In addition, an elevator will need to be built, and the auditorium and floors of the theater will need to be repaired.

Architect Václav Hilský designed the cultural center in the style of modern classicism. The magnificently conceived complex opened in 1959 and was one of the largest cultural facilities in what was then Czechoslovakia. The curtain in the theater rose for the first time on September 12, 1959. Since 2006, the building has been a cultural monument.