New square in Kallaste links town centre to Lake Peipus shore

Estonia's smallest town, Kallaste, has opened a renovated section of its central square that now links the town centre directly to the shore of Lake Peipus. Stairs and a ramp built last summer already lead straight down to the water, and along with a new viewing platform and rest areas, they are being actively used by locals and visitors alike, Estonian broadcaster's "Aktuaalne Kaamera" programme reported.

According to Peipsiääre rural municipality elder Piibe Koemets, the site was previously almost entirely neglected, consisting of little more than a patch of asphalt and a lawn. She said the renovated square is expected to give a boost to local entrepreneurship and provide recreational opportunities for people of all ages.

Finishing touches still to come

Although the final finishing touches will only be added in September, both residents and visitors have already given the new square a positive reception. A local resident named Urmas said the space looks very attractive overall, though he questioned the choice of red colouring if the design is meant to evoke a shore swallow, the coastline and lake waves.

The Kallaste central square project is considered the largest investment in the Peipsiääre municipality in recent years. Next summer, a café and children's play attractions are planned to open on the square.