CURRENT STATUS OF THE PLANNED RECONSTRUCTION AND BEAUTIFICATION OF OSTRAVA MAIN TRAIN STATION AND ITS SURROUNDINGS
February marked 49 years since the opening of the main building of Ostrava Main Train Station, a structure representative of the fading Brussels style in Czech architecture. The building has been affected by time and partial interventions, with some elements disappearing and internal modifications being added. Similarly, the area in front of this main railway hub has gradually deteriorated.
Ostrava Main Train Station at the beginning of 20th century. Photo: AMO
To address its transformation, the city announced a public procurement procedure in December 2021. The contract aimed at developing a study containing an urban design for the area, elaborated to the level of an investment plan. The Municipal Studio for Urban Planning and Architecture was involved in preparing the tender conditions to ensure the quality of proposals. The selection procedure was won by the architectural studio CASUA and AFRY CZ. A public debate followed in August 2022.
“As far as I am aware, before this public procurement was announced in 2021, the previous city administration had considered organising an architectural competition. Such a competition could have resulted in an ambitious design from a world-renowned architect or architectural studio, from which another iconic building in Ostrava might have emerged. However, at that time, there was not enough relevant data and materials available to set the competition brief, leading the previous administration to abandon this idea. Currently, there is more than enough information about Ostrava Main Train Station and its surroundings, but although thoughts of an architectural competition have resurfaced and make sense, given the timelines set by the overall reconstruction of Ostrava’s railway node, which must include the desired modifications, it is more appropriate to select an architect and designer based on professional approach rather than offered price,” stated Vice Mayor of Ostrava, Hana Tichánková. “Otherwise, there is a real risk the Railway Administration will keep indefinitely postponing this significant investment,” she added.
The city’s project for transforming the station’s forecourt fits into the broader context of organising the entire transport hub of Ostrava Main Train Station, involving several unique actors with a common goal – to create a pleasant and functional place for passengers. The city also sought agreement on the solution with the Railway Administration. The synergy and coordination with the mentioned major reconstruction of the railway hub are crucial in the city’s project planning.
The station acquired its current appearance following a renovation in 2013. The project was carried out by the Moravská Ostrava a Přívoz City District, resulting in improved environmental conditions, including better integration with public transport and additional parking spaces for cars. A ramp for barrier-free access to the Czech Railways passenger building was constructed, along with a dispatch centre with facilities for drivers and a covered stop. The fountain was also renovated, and greenery was added. Despite these improvements, the station does not adequately fulfil its function in the long term, prompting the city to proceed with further planning for its comprehensive renovation.