On February 5, a meeting of the Vilnius Regional Architecture Council (RAT) was held in the meeting hall of the Lithuanian Chamber of Architects and remotely, during which the request of architect Lukas Rekevičius regarding the urban integrity of the project at P. Lukšio g. 34, where the Banginis shopping center is located, was considered. During the meeting, the council members were introduced to the vision for the transformation of the Banginis shopping center territory and additional documents. Although specific visuals were not provided, Banginis should move elsewhere according to the plans. The residents do not agree with this.
75 percent of those surveyed (1289 votes) say they do not want this shopping center to be demolished. Another 10 percent (177 votes) say that the fate of this place is unimportant to them, it will be fine either way.
"Do we really want 3000 tenants in the neighborhood? When there is already a shortage of parking spaces, there is neither a school nor a kindergarten," residents oppose the proposal.
However, 15 percent of respondents (257 votes) would support the decision to demolish the shopping center. According to them, the current location is unsuitable for a shopping center.
"What else do I agree or disagree with? This is private property, and the owners can decide for themselves. It's the same as asking for the approval of your neighbors if you want to rearrange the furniture in your apartment," the residents write.
"When they want to build a new shopping center - that's bad. When they want to demolish an existing shopping center - that's bad. The only thing I agree with is that social infrastructure must be provided for (mandated) in large territories. Everything else, if it complies with the law, let them do as they want on their own land," people comment.
"It's long past time to demolish and use the area right next to the city center more wisely. We should be happy that the density will increase, that parking lot next to Rimi "They should also be built, such asphalt fields are too much of a luxury," Vilnius residents share their opinion.
The MadeinVilnius.lt survey took place from Monday, March 24, to Friday, March 28. 1723 residents participated in the survey.
No specific visuals were provided during the meeting. However, it was revealed that during the transformation of the territory, it is planned to construct one 9-story building, and the remaining buildings would be 7-story.
The residential function is planned in the inner part of the plot, away from the busy P. Lukšio Street. The perimeters of the streets and public spaces would be formed by commercial premises. All residential premises would be for rent. The first floors of all buildings could be adapted for any function, integrating educational institutions, but the specific location is not specified. The plan remains flexible. 1417 apartments, 3000 residents are planned.
A new public space is also planned on the site. The current store will be moved to the northeast corner of the site, occupying two floors of the building and utilizing the roofs.
