Prague swaps riverside benches: 25 new structures for 5 million crowns

A major overhaul of street furniture has begun along Prague's Vltava embankments: 25 new oak structures worth roughly 5 million crowns in total will replace worn-out wooden benches. The news was announced by Marta Pražáková, deputy chair of the board of the city-run company Trade Centre Praha (TCP).

According to her, the goal wasn't simply to swap old for new, but to offer a wider variety of resting spots and make better use of the space the embankments provide. That's why the project also includes larger seating arrangements suited for longer stays and gatherings.

What's coming to the embankments

According to TCP, a total of 25 new sets of furniture will be installed along the Vltava — ranging from single benches and clusters of two or three pieces to two large nine-seat "nests." Altogether, the structures consist of 70 individual elements.

"The embankments aren't just a transport route or an event venue. Above all, they're a public space by the river where people can stop, sit down and relax," Pražáková emphasized.

The new furniture will gradually replace 21 old wooden benches, many of which are already badly worn. Thanks to the new layout, the total number of seating spots will increase.

Oak benches and a delayed installation

The benches are made from solid oak beams, with the design created by the architecture studio Projektil architekti. Martin Habřinský, head of embankment management at TCP, said the first batch of old benches was already removed back in summer, but starting the installation of the new furniture required approval from relevant authorities and the introduction of traffic restrictions.

A basic module, including its support, foundation pour and installation, will cost around 72,500 crowns. Foundation work is already underway, and the first benches will be installed next week. The project's cost has already raised eyebrows online, with many also worried the new seating will end up occupied by homeless people.

Source: novinky.cz