Narva-Jõesuu plans €10 million revival of historic resort hall

The Estonian town of Narva-Jõesuu has agreed to buy back its historic resort hall, known as the kuursaal, from private owners, with plans to turn it into a year-round cultural and community hub using European Union funding.

Completed in 1912, the Art Nouveau building is listed on Estonia's National Registry of Cultural Monuments. A significant part of the structure was damaged during World War II.

More than 20 years ago, a company linked to businessman Tiit Vähi purchased the property, intending to build a hotel and restaurant there, but the project was never carried out. Mayor Maksim Iljin said those plans had once been realistic but became unworkable following the global financial crisis, Russia's annexation of Crimea, and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Events possible as early as next year

The Narva-Jõesuu City Council has agreed to pay €375,000 for the resort hall together with almost 3 hectares of surrounding land. According to Iljin, the full redevelopment could ultimately cost around €10 million. The city has already earmarked up to €20,000 this year for basic safety measures and intends to begin improving the grounds around the building.

Officials hope to start hosting events in the park behind the hall as soon as next year. The redevelopment plans also include building a new concert hall, since the town has long lacked a venue large enough for major events outside the summer season.

Betting on EU funding

Preliminary work — including surveys, expert assessments and design — will be paid for from the city's own budget. For the remainder, officials are counting on EU funding once the next Multiannual Financial Framework begins, with three possible funding schemes already being considered.

Once completed, the complex is meant to serve as a year-round destination combining conference and event space with a restaurant, a youth center and a tourist information center.