In Brno, a memorandum is being created for the construction of a concert hall for the Philharmonic

Brno - Representatives of Brno and the South Moravian Region are expected to reach an agreement with the ministry of culture's officials after years regarding the construction of the Janáček Cultural Center. By the end of the year, representatives from all three parties and the chamber of commerce should sign a memorandum for the construction of the concert hall in Brno. The Brno Philharmonic has been calling for its establishment for about 100 years. According to the Deputy Mayor Daniel Rychnovský (KDU-ČSL), the document is nearly complete. It also includes financial considerations, Rychnovský told ČTK.
    Experts estimate the cost of constructing the center at 1.2 billion crowns. Brno and the region are expected to contribute 300 million crowns according to current agreements, while state support in 2011 and 2012 should amount to 500 million crowns, the deputy said.
    The remaining 400 million crowns should be covered by a private investor, represented by the chamber of commerce upon signing the memorandum. According to Rychnovský, the investment should be recouped. His portion of the funds will be used to build underground garages with 400 spaces. The deputy estimates that they will be sought after and thus will generate profits. "Because it's the last place in the city center where one can park," he noted.
    The construction of the Janáček Cultural Center has been planned in Brno for years. The city lacks a concert hall, yet experts consider the Brno Philharmonic to be an outstanding ensemble. According to Rychnovský, a breakthrough was made with the recent decision of the regional council to participate in the project and agree to co-funding. "The region has never supported the Janáček Cultural Center before," Rychnovský stated. However, according to Governor Michal Hašek (ČSSD), the region will only contribute its 100 million crowns if the state also provides a subsidy.
    The Janáček Cultural Center is planned to be built on the current parking lot next to the Besední dům. There is currently a study for the project, and documentation for area planning is being processed. "We are about to issue the zoning decision," said the deputy.