We talked about the growth of Ostrava and its largest urban area, Silesian Ostrava, with its mayor Richard Vereš. He believes Ostrava deserves greater recognition both nationally and internationally. This motivates his role in representing Czech local governments in the European Committee of the Regions.
Silesian Ostrava is home to the Baník football team, which is about to get a new stadium. How is the project progressing, and why do you believe facilities like this are important for the city?
The new stadium at the iconic Bazaly is currently in the architectural competition phase, with thirty architectural firms from around the globe submitting applications to the city. This high level of interest is encouraging and demonstrates that Ostrava captivates international attention. Structures like the new stadium and the concert hall designed by American architect Steven Holl are pivotal in transforming our city into a modern European metropolis. If we want to attract potential investors, new residents, and tourists, we must offer more than just renovated pavements or basic urban services. High-quality cultural and sports facilities, impressive architecture and public spaces, accessible public transportation, and excellent education and healthcare are all essential to drawing top scientists, students, and foreign companies seeking suitable living conditions for their employees to Ostrava.
In Ostrava, we are wholeheartedly dedicated to achieving these objectives. For instance, the transformation of the former city slaughterhouse into the PLATO contemporary art gallery was a notable project that became a finalist for the prestigious Mies van der Rohe Architecture Award. Additionally, the new city campus of the University of Ostrava deserves recognition. Moreover, numerous other initiatives are underway, including the construction of new sports halls, the renovation and expansion of schools, the renewal of the public transport fleet, and the planned modernisation of the city hospital.
Nevertheless, the environment has been a longstanding concern in Ostrava. Could this pose a challenge for attracting potential new residents to the city?
Definitely not. In fact, in many aspects, the environment in Ostrava today surpasses that of central Prague. While certain industrial operations still exist within the city, their effect on air quality has significantly diminished over the past few decades. The city’s role is to encourage these companies to enhance the sustainability of their production processes further. It is not sufficient for them just to meet the requirements of integrated permits; they should also embrace eco-friendly practices as part of their social responsibility. Many companies are already taking these steps, and as a result, the quality of life in the city is improving. It is also worth noting that Ostrava’s distinct advantage is its close proximity to the Beskydy Mountains. Few major cities offer the ability to access such stunning natural landscapes within a mere twenty-minute journey.
You personally represent Czech local governments in the European Committee of the Regions. Where does Ostrava stand in Europe, and what benefits does your role in this capacity provide?
I believe Ostrava deserves greater recognition, both locally and internationally. It is important for Europe to hear about Ostrava as well. Through my membership in the European Committee of the Regions, I have the opportunity to present initiatives from our region to EU institutions and act as a mediator for the city, region, businesses, and universities. Europe presents many opportunities today, and we need to be aware of them and be willing to seize them. This is certainly something I aim to contribute to.
Thank you for the interview.
