Housing market may be privatized: what awaits Kyiv’s architectural landmark
21 May 17:47
A petition calling for the preservation of the architectural heritage of the Zhytniy Market in Kyiv and the establishment of fair rules for its privatization has received the 6,000 signatures required for consideration. This is reported by "Komersant Ukrainian" with reference to the electronic petition service on the website of the Kyiv City Council.
The petition in question is No. 13509 “For the preservation of the architectural heritage of Zhytniy Market and fair rules for its privatization.” It was initiated by Ukrainian businessman and investor, lawyer Andriy Zhurzhiy.
What the petition says
The author of the petition notes that it is difficult to imagine Podil without the Zhytniy Market, but this may become a reality if Kyiv residents do not unite to save the architectural monument. The market, which is more than 45 years old, is in decline: there has been no overhaul, the systems are worn out, the roof is leaking, there is no heating, and the windows are broken. Today, only a third of the outlets are open, and the market is gradually dying. In 2022, the court even banned its use due to its emergency condition.
Three years ago, the city leased the Zhytniy Market, but the tenant did not fulfill its promises of major repairs – the contract did not have clear obligations. As a result, the market remained in a terrible state, and the tenant disappeared. A new tenant could not be found – the community blocked the auction to prevent a potential buyout of the market after minimal investment (only 25% of the value) with the possibility of further destruction of the building and development of the site.
The market needs at least UAH 700 million to be restored. The city does not have such funds, and it is unprofitable for the temporary owner to invest millions. The only realistic option is open privatization with clear conditions. We are talking about a sale on Prozorro with a binding contract that will oblige the new owner to carry out major repairs, preserve the architecture and function of the market.
Read also: Possible price of Zhytniy Market renovation has become known
The petition calls on the authorities to include Zhytniy in the list of privatization objects with the following conditions
- preserve the appearance, roof and function of the market;
- invest at least UAH 500 million in repairs over 3 years;
- provide for control mechanisms and liability for failure to fulfill obligations.
Read also: The rye market wants to live: Klitschko is summoned to talk about the fate of the building
What you need to know about Zhytniy Market
Zhytniy Market is one of the oldest and most famous markets in Kyiv, located in the heart of Podil. Its modern building was constructed in 1980 and is an iconic example of late Soviet modernist architecture. The market is known not only as a trading center, but also as a historical site, as it was here that bazaars existed since princely times – from the 11th century.
Current condition:
- The market building has been in a state of disrepair for a long time.
- No major repairs have been carried out since its opening.
- The condition of the roof, windows, and utilities is in disrepair.
- In 2022, the court banned the use of the premises due to the danger to visitors.
- Only about 30% of the outlets are occupied.
In 2021, the Zhytniy Market was leased to a private investor who undertook to carry out major repairs, but no obligations were clearly stated in the contract. But the tenant did not fulfill his promise and actually disappeared. The city tried to hold a new auction, but the public blocked it because of the threat of development.
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