New entrance gates to the Exhibition Center could be built in 2018

Prague – New entrance gates to the Výstaviště complex could be built in 2018. The administrator of the complex, the municipal company Rozvojové projekty Praha, has announced an architectural competition for the entrance area. This was reported today in a press release by the Institute of Planning and Development (IPR), which oversees the competition. The modifications to the entrance are expected to be the first phase of the reconstruction of the exhibition grounds, with plans for the reconstruction of the burnt wing of the Industrial Palace in the future.

The proposal should include not only a new main and secondary entrance gate but also new ticket offices, modifications to the fencing, and a concept for placing advertising spaces. A new set of furnishings, lighting, and greenery should appear in the area in front of the gate.

The jury will select the winner of the competition this spring, and proposals are accepted until March 27. "In addition to the competition for the entrance gates, we will reconstruct the Lapidarium and the Bohemia restaurant this year, a new grilling area will be created, and we would like to complete a water biotope as well," stated Mayor Adriana Krnáčová (ANO) in the press release.

The Výstaviště near Stromovka was established in 1891 on the occasion of the Jubilee Land Exhibition. A flood in 2002 caused significant damage to the area. Six years later, the Industrial Palace was engulfed in a fire, and an entire wing burned down. Until a replica can be built, Prague intends to construct a temporary hall costing about 300 million crowns. However, conservationists disagree.

There are plans for the gradual division of the complex into sports, cultural, and relaxation zones. The future of the Spirála theatre, which has been closed since the flood, is also being considered. The Křižík fountain and the sports hall also need repairs. The city has not yet estimated the costs for all the necessary renovations.