There are many buildings in Tallinn's Old Town that belong to the city. They are often empty and in poor condition.
Deputy Mayor Tiit Terik says the city could sell these buildings to private owners. Then new owners could repair them. But city planning specialist Kaarel Truu disagrees with this.
The city owns over 65,000 square meters of space in the Old Town. Most of it is rented to businesses. The city itself uses only one-third.
Currently, there are 20 vacant rental spaces in the Old Town. Terik says this is due to the economy and tourism. Truu believes the reasons also lie in neglect.
Many buildings are in poor condition. They have not been renovated for a long time. Some buildings even have damage because they stand empty.
Terik says the city doesn't have money to repair all the buildings. He recommends selling those the city doesn't need. Then new owners could fix them up.
The Old Town development plan states that the city should take care of empty and decaying buildings. The rental space policy should be well-considered.
Truu believes the city should be a better owner. Old Town buildings should remain in city ownership. Then the city can choose tenants and direct activities.
Truu says the Old Town must remain vibrant. Both tourists and locals visit there. Selling buildings is not a good solution.