Iidla Basic School renovation: pool and sports hall funding still to be resolved

Kohtla-Järve continues preparations for the renovation of Iidla Basic School. The renovated building is planned to open in autumn 2029. The city government has already signed a contract with the construction project manager, and discussions on the design sketch are ongoing.

The Ministry of Education believes that earlier issues have been resolved and the project has regained momentum. Deputy Mayor for development and economy Denis Vershinin said the ministry is satisfied with the actions taken by the city government over the past month and expects an action plan for the near future. He also noted that the swimming pool and sports hall are not covered by the reconstruction project, so the funding burden falls on the city, which will have to find ways to put those facilities in order.

Riina Ivanova, who was recently removed from her post as head of Kohtla-Järve's development service, said the municipality is working ahead of the schedule drawn up in 2024 and there are no delays on the city's side. However, she fears that the renovated building will not have enough room for all students. According to her, about 640 children are expected to attend the new school, while more than 1,300 children are currently enrolled. Ivanova said she cannot imagine where almost half of the children will disappear by the planned opening.

The Ministry of Education explained that after the renovated building opens, the city will continue to use the former Ahtme Basic School building until the number of students declines. The municipality is not obliged to close or demolish that building.