Bars in Tartu's historic center concerned over new residential building
Bars in Tartu's historic center fear the arrival of a new apartment building nearby will lead to conflicts with future residents. The building, slated for completion by 2028, will add more than 50 apartments to the city's main nightlife district.
Several bars operating in Tartu's historic center have voiced concerns over a new residential building being erected nearby. They worry that conflicts with local residents may soon arise. Rüütli Street is the main hub of Tartu's nightlife, and while residential apartments have so far been relatively scarce in the area, more than 50 new apartments are expected to appear there by 2028 in a building at Gildi 8.
The bar Kivi, which hosts concerts and an evening program, is located closest to the new building. Its owner, Karin Kiplok, asked why apartments are being allowed in a place where problems are clearly inevitable. In her experience, she will have to deal with those problems on her own — at her own expense, with her own effort and nerves.
The scenario is already familiar to venues in the Old Town: the Genialistide klubi has been dealing with the aftermath of noise complaints for more than a year and a half. Similar disputes periodically occur on Rüütli Street as well. Old Town resident Triin Varul says that over ten years, she has repeatedly turned to various authorities because of noise, but some issues remain unresolved to this day. She says she knew it would be noisy, but did not expect such strong vibration through the wall from the neighboring building.
Jaan Tover, owner of several Tartu bars, says entrepreneurs have to deal with the consequences of nightlife-related conflicts themselves. The city government, for its part, says any problems will be addressed as they arise. Tartu Deputy Mayor Kertu Vuks stressed that future residents should understand what kind of neighborhood they are buying into; the same applies to hotels in the city center. Developers must account for the specific nature of the center.
The developer Livida Grupp assures that the specifics of being located next to bars have been taken into account. The project includes enhanced sound insulation, special windows, and additional protection of the shared wall with the neighboring bar.
