The former Dunarea Hotel in the Gara de Nord area could be rehabilitated
Sector 1 City Hall and the Bucharest Municipality intend to collaborate on the restoration and use of several heritage buildings. Most of these buildings are in poor condition and are deteriorating at an alarming rate.
One of the first buildings candidate for restoration is the former Dunarea Hotel building, located near Gara de Nord, on Calea Griviței. The building was severely damaged by the 1977 earthquake, and authorities cannot intervene until the building is expropriated.
The building where the Dunarea Hotel operated was built between 1935 and 1940 but was heavily affected by the 1977 earthquake and has since gradually degraded to its current major problems.
To restore this property, authorities must expropriate the building and the adjacent area. This involves 2,758.35 sqm of built area and 493 sqm of land.
Following the rehabilitation, authorities want to transform the building into a cultural hub, where exhibition spaces will be set up, as well as a residential, cultural, and educational center for local artists, an action within the “Municipal Cultural Space” project.
In the meeting on Thursday, January 20, the Sector 1 Local Council approved a draft resolution for express empowerment regarding the association between Sector 1 and the Municipality of Bucharest for the joint financing of the costs to finalize the expropriation procedures for the building at 138C Calea Griviței. Additionally, this agreement includes the costs for carrying out rehabilitation, modernization, and functional reconversion works.
The former Dunarea Hotel belongs to Israeli investor Avi Zamir, who hired the firm Real Sol, led by Shimon Galon, the former head of GTC, to rehabilitate it. However, he declared himself exasperated by the procedural delays caused by the Romanian authorities. According to certain market information, the value of the investment in the hotel’s rehabilitation would have amounted to three million euros.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will the former Dunarea Hotel be used for after restoration?
The building is set to become a cultural hub, featuring exhibition spaces and a residential and educational center for local artists.
Why is the expropriation of the building necessary?
Expropriation is required so that local authorities can legally intervene and fund the restoration of this privately-owned heritage site.
When was the Dunarea Hotel originally built?
The hotel was constructed between 1935 and 1940, but it suffered severe structural damage during the 1977 earthquake.