The Petőfi Square in Debrecen, which underwent a complete reconstruction, was inaugurated in mid-November last year. The HUF 900 million project was financed by EU funds and saw the renewal of around 6,000 square meters of grass, the planting of 3,000 square meters of shrubs and perennials, and 85 trees. A modern playground of 750 square meters with 12 pieces of playground equipment included.
The statue of Petőfi, inaugurated 73 years ago, has already undergone a complete reconstruction. An educational history trail of the town has been created, commemorating the pre-World War II square. Street furniture has been replaced, and benches, designed seating, waste bins, and bicycle racks have been installed. The square has also been equipped with 14 high-resolution public security cameras with image processing intelligence, which can operate in extreme light and environmental conditions.
The pedestrian zones around the square, several car parks, and the intersection of János Holló and Piac streets have been renovated. An artificial pond with a pond and a water machine were added at the square’s edge.
A terrace with a service pavilion is planned next to the 400 square-meter pond, although at the time it was announced that it would be built as part of another project.
Mayor László Papp said at the inauguration of the square that only a decision enabling the internal reallocation of EU funds is awaited, and it is hoped that construction can start in early 2023.
This decision has just been taken, according to a government decision published in the latest issue of the Hungarian Gazette.
According to the tender documents, the main function of the 179 m2 building is a barbecue pavilion with the following rooms: a kitchen with cooking facilities and associated rooms without kitchen technology) indoor (63 m2) and terraced (38 m2) consumer areas, toilets. The pavilion will also include a public, barrier-free, automatic toilet facility with external access to serve people in the square/playground.
The winning company will have six months to build the barbecue pavilion after the contract has been signed and the site has been taken over. No decision has been made yet on the name of the barbecue pavilion, but László Papp said that the Royal Hotel, which once housed the Royal kiosk, once stood on the square and that he thought it worthwhile to keep its name.
