Fewer and fewer people live in Tallinn's Old Town. Now there are only 2000 residents there. Deputy Mayor Kristjan Järvan says the problem is accessibility and heritage conservation restrictions.
Many businesses have moved away from both the Old Town and the city center. In central Tallinn, 15-20% of business premises are vacant. This is more than ever before.
Järvan says new business spaces, the popularity of home offices, and tax policy are affecting the situation. Businesses focusing on tourists have fared the best.
Olde Hansa restaurant manager Emmanuel Wille says running the restaurant is difficult. Costs are high and rent is more expensive. This makes using business premises challenging.
Järvan is concerned about the decline in Old Town residents. He wants the Old Town to be more of a living space than just a tourist center. The city supports enlivening traffic and easing heritage conservation.
Järvan believes heritage conservation rules should be more rational. This would help maintain life in the Old Town. He wishes the Old Town could be both a museum and a living space.
Wille says the Old Town must definitely be protected. Every construction or renovation requires a lot of time and permits. The Old Town must be protected to preserve its historical value.