Prague will prepare a plan for the use of the Karlín barracks, which it will acquire from the state

Prague - Prague will prepare a plan for the further use of the barracks in Karlín, which it is to acquire from the state in the coming months as part of approved property exchanges. It could house a school, cultural spaces, a science and technology park, or student housing. Adam Zábranský (Pirates), the councilor for property, told ČTK. He added that the city is currently waiting for the final approval of the property exchanges by the government, after which the transfer of property should follow.

The city council has been negotiating a major property exchange worth approximately 1.7 billion crowns with the state for several years, and the representatives definitively approved it this April. In exchange for most of the Faculty Hospital Bulovka complex, the city will receive the barracks in Karlín as well as a building on Hybernská Street.

According to Zábranský, the councilors should soon instruct their contribution organization, the Prague Development Company (PDS), to work with heritage conservationists to develop a plan for the use of the extensive complex.

In addition to the previously mentioned uses, such as student housing, the city is also considering establishing a primary or secondary school, according to the councilor. "We are trying to find space for schools wherever possible," he said, adding that, considering the size of the barracks, the city plans to truly have a multifunctional use of the building. However, he stated that the preparation for reconstruction will take years, partly due to heritage protection.

According to him, cultural and community center, which has operated in the courtyard and smaller buildings of the barracks for several years, does not need to worry. "It doesn't make any sense to kick out the current tenants when they have made it an attractive place and a local center," the councilor said. He added that the city is also considering organizing regular tours of the barracks.

The historic building of the Karlín barracks dates back to the 19th century and was used for military purposes during both Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic. The building has been under heritage protection since 1958. The state has previously attempted to sell the complex multiple times, but without success.