New beach for Haapsalu
Aug 15, 2008
By Mike Collier
HAAPSALU - Enterprise Estonia
has confirmed that it will fund the first stage of reconstruction works of the
promenade in Haapsalu. The total cost of the works is approximately
MEEK 60, of which nearly MEEK 50 will be covered from the grant for
increasing regional competitiveness, co-funded from the European
Regional Development Fund.
“The Haapsalu promenade was already considered to be a very
presentable place at the end of the 19th century. It supported
surrounding healthcare possibilities, flamboyant buildings and
entertainment facilities. As of today, the former main road of the
Haapsalu resort has become entirely obsolete, the structure on the
beach, road covering, lighting and greenery are in a bad condition, and
sculptures require renovating,†explained Monica Hankov, Director of
the Business Environment Division of Enterprise Estonia.
In the course of the project, the road covering will be renewed, the
old balustrade on the beach demolished and a new one built, greenery
established, two historical decorative staircases restored, boat
landings and a boat rental pavilion built.
Several works that will make
it more comfortable to visit the promenade will also be performed, such
as the marking of traffic management and the construction of
lavatories. One of the works is the construction of the so-called
spring pavilion building, where extreme water levels can be observed.
“The promenade will
be turned into a unique open-air theme park that other towns do not
have,†said Hankov.
“The reconstruction of the promenade
will bring the atmosphere and services of the original resort town back
to Haapsalu: boat rides, musicians, picnics, artists, evening concerts.
The promenade will have the power to reshape the reputation of the
entire town and support its businesses,†she added.