Renato Lamanna points to signage stating that the area outside his restaurant is closed. (source: Oscar Brophy for The Slovak Spectator)
Bratislava’s ongoing urban regeneration is not welcomed by all. Alongside the controversial cycle lane on Vajanského nábrežie – criticised by detractors for worsening rush-hour congestion – a new underground car park on Kollárovo Square is proving deeply unpopular with local business owners.
Reconstruction of Kollárovo Square began in June, with plans for a five-storey underground car park offering 296 spaces. The development, led by Parking House in collaboration with the city, is intended to reduce street parking, create more green areas, and add a pedestrian zone on the square’s south-west side.
While the long-term vision is ambitious, the short-term disruption has left businesses struggling. The construction zone, wrapped in green tarpaulin, has cut off visibility and access for two tenants at the Park One office building: the Italian restaurant Primo Amore and the bar Skupinová Terapia.
