Tartu has accepted detail project of territory located between Raatuse, Pikk, Põik streets and recently built Three Brothers buildings. Public discussion has taken place in November 2017. There were objections, but they weren't taken to consideration.

With this plan the territory is divided to three areas. The whole area is 12 300 m², mainly empty. It is allowed to build up to eight apartment-business buildings. First floor of the Raatuse str buildings must have active facade. Historical brick buildings must be saved in the volume and general view.

In fact it means, that historical brick buildings can be demolished and the similar ones can be build instead. Generally such practice isn't welcome in developed European countries, where it is tried to save as many original details as possible. But this stand is popular in Asia. For example, old historical quarters are massively demolished in China and imitation is built instead.

The problem with that practice is following – it is very complicated to reconstruct an original building in details, because today different materials and techniques are in use. Even if at first sight the building looks the same, it might be very different in details, what makes it look like a Disney Land. And what is even more important – soul of the historical house disappears. tartu.areneb.ee is sure, that imitation can never be better than the original.

Raatuse 37 is in Crown style and built in 1905, Raatuse 41 was built in 1898. Look how do the look like today:
At the same time it is understood why the buildings' owner want to demolish old building and to build the new ones. At first, it's simply cheaper. Secondly, old buildings are out of today's standards – too small rooms, no parking floors etc. And as a result it is not possible to make the project economically rational. So it is possible, that current project is the only possible compromise, that will allow to keep historical buildings.

What do you feel – was it the right decision to accept the project? Is it allowed to demolish historical buildings and to construct similar ones instead? Participate in the discussion and let us know your opinion at our facebook page.