Prague is looking for a company to repair the Vršovice Waterworks

Prague - Prague is looking for a company to repair the historic Vršovice Waterworks in Braník. The reconstruction of this Art Nouveau cultural monument is expected to cost around 200 million crowns and could be completed by the end of next year. The City Hall has previously informed that the repair will be financed from funds obtained from the European Union. The waterworks is expected to serve as a social or cultural center in the future.
    The waterworks stopped supplying water to Vršovice in 1975 and has been deteriorating since then. Deputy Mayor Pavel Klega (ODS) stated last year that the city hall wants to preserve the historical elements of the building, including the facade made of sharply fired unplastered bricks. Therefore, restorers and conservationists should collaborate on the repair.
    "The reconstruction involves adjusting the existing structures; all work must be carried out with regard to the current condition and should be as shape- and color-matching as possible to the original state," the invitation to tender states.
    Prague has acquired funds from European funds for the repair under the Competitiveness program. The European Union will cover 85 percent of the costs, while the remaining amount will be shared between the capital city and the state. After the revitalization, the waterworks area is expected to be made accessible to the public. The specific use will depend on the projects from those interested in future operations.
    Although it is located in Braník, the waterworks is named after Vršovice, which it supplied with drinking water. It was built in 1907 according to the design of architect Jan Kotěra. In 2002, it was included among the cultural monuments of the Czech Republic.