Historic Town Centre of Zalaegerszeg to Be Renewed from EU Funding17 November 2009
Zalaegerszeg City of County Rank was approved non-reimbursable assistance amounting to 900 million HUF within the framework of the West Transdanubia Operational Programme of NHDP to implement its historic town centre rehabilitation programme.
The project’s assistance contract was ceremoniously signed on 13 November.
The fundamental objective of this rehabilitation programme costing over 1.5 billion HUF relates to restoring the former integrity of the town centre, which on severed by transport routes, as a result of which Kazinczy Ferenc Square would evolve into the main square of the town.
Once traffic is diverted, the truly spectacular series of investments, such as, the quality reconstruction of the squares either fully or partially closed to traffic, will begin within the framework of a well-organised process implemented in phases.
Market Square will be renewed, and with its permanent and mobile sales stands, pavement, pot plants, public lighting, benches, fountain reminiscent of the castle walls and moat, stairs, other small statues, as well as the terrace and stage "concealed" behind a passageway, will evolve into a town square with a real ambiance. An underground parking lot will also be constructed underneath Market Square. The basic concept of "Lace Passage" rests on the renewal of the interior of Lace House, covering the courtyard, creating inner spaces with an ambiance, as well as opening new shops accessible via the courtyard. In addition, Kossuth Lajos Street will also be renewed and new pavement worthy of the town centre will be laid along the footpath and the street.