The deputy Hudeček will verify changes concerning Prague's train stations

Prague - The new deputy mayor Tomáš Hudeček (TOP 09) wants to check the proposed changes to the city plan that affect Prague's train stations and to change the process of making amendments to the city plan and the functioning of the City Development Department. He stated this in an interview with the Czech News Agency (ČTK). The changes allowing the reconstruction of Masaryk and Smíchov train stations and the Žižkov freight station have previously provoked criticism from experts and the public. Architects and civic associations have long pointed out the poor functioning of the development department.
    Hudeček, who has held the position of deputy mayor since last week, criticizes the system of so-called city-wide significant changes to the city plan. These are discussed separately from the preparation of the new city plan. According to him, they are an example of rampant corruption. "These are standard changes; they are just distinguished by name from others. Among them are also insignificant proposals," he told ČTK.
    Currently, over 30 such changes are prepared for approval, and they could reach the city council this month or next. "Three changes that have problems will definitely not go to discussion now. These are Smíchov, Masaryk station, and the Žižkov freight station. I want to discuss them separately," said Hudeček.
    Local residents and civic associations opposed the changes that would allow the reconstruction of these stations. For example, the association Tady není developerovo has long opposed the reconstruction of the Žižkov station, which would involve the demolition of a functionalist building. The station building was previously declared a monument, but Culture Minister Jiří Besser canceled the decision and returned it to the heritage preservation authorities for review.
    Hudeček also wants to look at the functioning of the City Development Department of Prague (ÚRM), which, among other things, prepares positions on proposed changes. "The department needs to have a clear focus. It has become an authority that comments on everything, even though its position is not binding," Hudeček stated. The changes at ÚRM were initiated by Hudeček's predecessor Josef Nosek (ODS), who is now responsible for transport. During his year in office, Bořek Votava was dismissed from the position of director of ÚRM, who according to some critics was subject to pressure from developers and entrepreneurs.
    Hudeček wants to build on other Nosek's steps as well. For example, he wants to continue the work of the working group Vision 2050, which is to discuss the potential development of Prague.
    Hudeček became deputy mayor after ODS dissolved the coalition with ČSSD and agreed on a new coalition arrangement with TOP 09.