The reconstruction of Škroupovo Square in Česká Lípa will limit traffic in the city center starting in April

Česká Lípa - The long-planned reconstruction of Škroupovo Square in Česká Lípa will restrict traffic in the city center starting in April. Work will begin with the repair of sewage and water systems on Prokopa Holého Street and in part of Škroupovo Square, where the Libertin House of Children and Youth is located, said city hall spokesperson Kristýna Kňákal Brožová to ČTK. Construction work in this part of the center is planned until 2027, with costs estimated by the city hall at 70 million crowns.

"The work will start with the reconstruction of engineering networks, primarily sewage systems, both wastewater and stormwater on Prokopa Holého Street. This is planned in several phases, as there are several residential buildings and businesses, and we have to adapt to ensure these buildings remain accessible. Otherwise, the city will begin the actual reconstruction of the square this year by repairing the staircase leading to Jindřicha z Lipé Street," added Deputy Mayor Martin Brož (ANO). In connection with the construction, the popular farmers' market had to be moved to Edvard Beneš Square.

"Due to the construction, it will not be possible to enter Prokopa Holého Street, with the exception of permitted access for deliveries to local businesses. The street will remain accessible to pedestrians, and temporary access to houses and businesses will be ensured. Residents will be able to use five reserved parking spots on Škroupovo Square for short-term vehicle parking during the closure," said the city hall spokesperson. According to her, Jindřicha z Lipé Street will also likely be partially closed in April and May, with access possible from Moskevská Street.

The discussion about the reconstruction of Škroupovo Square in Česká Lípa has been ongoing for over ten years. In 2019, the city hall announced an architectural competition for the project and received 14 proposals. The one from the Brno studio M2AU won. The square is set to transform into a relaxation zone with plenty of greenery, shade, and benches, while also providing sufficient space for hosting smaller cultural events and various types of markets. Parking spaces will be reduced. "Today there are about 60 spaces; there should be about ten left," said Brož.

According to Mayor Jitka Volfová (ANO), Škroupovo Square is an archaeologically extremely valuable location. "It is important for us to create something architecturally interesting here, while also honoring this special place and the surrounding buildings in the city’s heritage zone," she stated. There was also a church on the square, which was lost in two major fires in the city at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries, and its outline will be commemorated in the square’s paving. The area will be enlivened by trees as well as a water feature.