A complete ERDF-funded regeneration of a famous square and its surroundings in Győr, Hungary is increasing tourist numbers to the city while boosting the local economy.
- 13 January 2016
I am delighted that downtown Györ is filled with life again. It has become a new meeting point, and visitors spend their free time on Széchenyi Square instead of in shopping malls. Today, the town has a great atmosphere and it’s a pleasure to take a look around the centre and see everyone smiling while sitting on the many terraces. I am happy because this was our goal.
The works involved replacing 6 385 m2 of paving and erecting 46 special lighting structures on the square itself. Street furniture was installed, as were surveillance cameras, bicycle racks and a drinking water fountain. In addition, a 295 m rain gutter and a 1270 m electric cable that serves the purpose of lighting the entire square were also laid. The environment has also benefited with numerous trees being planted.
New businesses; new spaces
This development project was not limited to the renovation of Széchenyi Square. Several buildings around it were also revamped. For example, the elegant, two hundred year old Lloyd Palace was fitted with new offices, cafes, bars and terraces. In addition, the historic Bencés Rendház pharmacy (a former Benedictine monastery) was completely renovated and reopened to the public, while Saint Ignatius Benedictine church and the facade of the priorate looking onto Széchenyi Square and Czuczor street were also refurbished. Moreover, the Koktél cafe and ice cream parlour opened a new coffee shop and manufacturing space.
A total of three jobs were created during the project’s implementation, and some 20 jobs have been created since the works took place.
Bringing in tourists
As a result of this investment, Széchenyi Square has become a proper tourist attraction, and rental interest in the quarter has increased. According to official figures, the number of guest nights at hotels in Győr rose to more than 363 000 in 2014.
Most tourists visit the Baroque centre of the town – including of course, Széchenyi Square. The square and surrounding streets regularly also host many open events during the town’s annual Four Seasons festival. In recognition of the renovation of the Baroque inner city, Győr received the prestigious Europa Nostra Award - the EU’s Prize for Cultural Heritage.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the “Function enhancement development of Széchenyi tér (Széchenyi Square) and its surrounding buildings in Győr” project is EUR 6 166 381 of which the EU’s European Regional Development Fund is contributing EUR 2 714 582 from the Operational Programme “West Pannon” for the 2007 to 2013 programming period.