Belgrade is once again in the spotlight due to the chaos surrounding the aquapark in Block 44. The city has made it clear that no residential or commercial buildings can be constructed on this site, only sports facilities with accompanying commercial services. Yet, after 20 years since the construction of the aquapark began on Nehru Street, things have gotten complicated. The new investor, River Siti company, has started demolishing the already built structures, and according to their sign, the demolition will last until October. Who is behind this mess and what they plan to build on the site remains a mystery as the company has not responded to media inquiries.
The construction of the aquapark has been repeatedly interrupted due to financial difficulties of previous investors, with the last official halt in 2019 when the Genel company stopped the project, owing millions of dinars to the Belgrade Construction Land Directorate. The city of Belgrade remains firm in its stance that no residential or commercial buildings are allowed on this location, but the new investor apparently has other plans, causing public concern and suspicion.
This situation casts a shadow over urban planning and shows how difficult it is to maintain control over investments in Belgrade. Will the city manage to protect its plans and the interests of its citizens, or will investor profits prevail again? Stay tuned as we follow this uncertain story unfolding in the heart of Belgrade. And you, what do you think — is this just another example of how construction in Belgrade turns into chaos, or maybe a chance for a fresh start? Drop a comment, let’s see who’s for and who’s against!