In recent years, the Moravian-Silesian metropolis has visibly progressed in all areas. We spoke with Ostrava’s Mayor, Jan Dohnal, about the key actions being taken.
Ostrava has been tackling waste management challenges for some time. What measures is the city implementing regarding waste-to-energy initiatives, and what are the long-term objectives?
In October 2023, we became the first city in the Czech Republic to operate an automated mixed municipal waste sorting line. This system can extract materials for both material and energy uses, such as creating alternative fuels to substitute coal and other fossil fuels. Non-recyclable sorted waste is redirected for energy recovery to minimise landfill disposal. Our long-term goal is to eliminate landfilling altogether, preparing in advance for the EU ban on landfilling mixed municipal waste set for 2030. This approach will enhance waste utilisation, lower heating costs for households, and promote more efficient energy resource use.
How is Ostrava enhancing its role as an innovative and appealing centre for investors?
First and foremost, we offer investors truly compelling and attractive projects that provide them with the opportunity to excel. This is particularly true in architecture, where they can be involved in projects that reshape the city. Examples include the conversion of the historic slaughterhouse into the PLATO gallery, the ongoing construction of a concert hall designed by architect Steven Holl, and the planned renovation of the tower building on Ostrčilova Street by Eva Jiřičná. Additionally, there are projects like New Bazaly. These are the standout features that draw investors in.
An important aspect of our innovation development is partnering with local universities, where I still see room for further growth. We have the most powerful supercomputers in the Czech Republic, the Moravian-Silesian Innovation Centre, and support for various startups. Ostrava holds considerable potential in this field, and I am pleased that many have already taken notice.
The city, known for its strong sports identity, has launched an architectural competition for designing a new football stadium. What is the current status of the competition’s preparation?
I would like to emphasise the significant interest generated by the competition. Thirty domestic and international studios, many quite prestigious, were eager to design the new Bazaly. The city invited ten of them in February. By the end of May, we received nine proposals and selected four by the end of June to advance to the final round. The creators are expected to submit their refined and completed designs this autumn. The winner will be chosen from these. Due to strict transparency rules, I cannot share more details now. However, this competition is further evidence that Ostrava is actively shedding its reputation as a grey city. It launches ambitious architectural contests, emphasises eco-friendly solutions, hosts prestigious sports events, and is enhancing its overall image.
Thank you for the interview.
