Estonia has secured the right to host one of the group stage tournaments of the 2029 European Basketball Championship. This comes with a plan to build a large arena that can accommodate 12,000 to 15,000 people. But where should this arena be located — in Tartu or Tallinn? This is a major question currently under discussion.
The Reform Party and Eesti 200 have already agreed that the Estonian Olympic Committee (EOK) will begin planning the construction of the new building. Several people have already proposed different locations. For example, Tanel Tein, who has supported the idea of a multi-hall since 2014, says that construction could start as late as 2030. He believes the arena should go to Tartu because it would bring more economic opportunities to Southern Estonia.
However, Tallinn Deputy Mayor Kaarel Oja believes the arena should go to Tallinn. He says that Tallinn has more transport connections and hotels, which are necessary for large events. Oja believes the new arena could be ready by 2029 if construction starts immediately.
The debate is also open among representatives of the tourism sector. Asmik Tsaturjan, CEO of the Estonian Tourism and Travel Companies Association, says that financing the new arena is a major issue. He hopes that Tallinn will start planning the construction of a new conference center.
In conclusion, it is clear that the construction of the new large arena is a major project that requires a lot of planning and funding. It is important to make the right decision on where the arena should be located so that it benefits all of Estonia.