Imatra City Council has decided to demolish the deteriorating Väärätalo building as soon as possible. The council made the decision during budget meetings this week.
Demolition planning will begin immediately. City officials want the poor-condition property torn down within the next year.
Council Chairman Tomi Kovanen said the protected facade will be covered during demolition. "The plan is to demolish what can be demolished," Kovanen stated in a city release. "We also hope planning for the lot's future use can begin quickly."
The city's draft budget allocates 800,000 euros for work on the Väärätalo site. The building has stood vacant for years while its condition worsened.
This decision reflects the practical challenges Finnish cities face with aging building stock. While preservation is ideal, safety concerns and maintenance costs often force difficult choices about historic structures.
What happens to protected facades during demolition?
The historic facade will be covered with protective material before demolition begins to preserve its appearance.
Why is the building being demolished?
City officials cite the building's poor condition and safety concerns as primary reasons for demolition rather than restoration.