Estonia, Funds, Investments, Tourism

Haapsalu.

“The Haapsalu promenade was already considered to be a very presentable place at the end of the 19th century. It supported surrounding healthcare possibilities, flamboyant buildings and entertainment facilities. As of today, the former main road of the Haapsalu resort has become entirely obsolete, the structure on the beach, road covering, lighting and greenery are in a bad condition, and sculptures require renovating,” explained Monica Hankov BC, Director of the Business Environment Division of Enterprise Estonia.

In the course of the project, the road covering will be renewed, the old balustrade on the beach demolished and a new one built, greenery established, two historical decorative staircases restored, boat landings and a boat rental pavilion built. Several works that will make it more comfortable to visit the promenade will also be performed, such as the marking of traffic management and the construction of lavatories. One of the works is the construction of the so-called spring pavilion building, where extreme water levels can be observed.

“Haapsalu is not only striving towards having the beach area cleaned up, but for historical similarity as well. As such, the promenade will be turned into a unique open-air theme park that other towns do not have,” described Monica Hankov. “The reconstruction of the promenade will bring the atmosphere and services of the original resort town back to Haapsalu: boat rides, musicians, picnics, artists, evening concerts. The promenade will have the power to reshape the reputation of the entire town and support its businesses,” she added.

Recently, a project that had also received aid from the programme for increasing the competitiveness of regions was completed, where the Haapsalu Bishop’s Castle was restored and transformed it into a place for active recreation. In addition, the Assembly Hall has also gained popularity among visitors, after the tidying up and establishment of the rose garden.

“Without a presentable promenade, Haapsalu cannot be regarded as a complete visiting environment. The castle, old town and promenade constitute a joint walking area where valuable objects complement each other,” said Hankov. “Also, the renewed promenade will be of interest to various target groups: for people interested in historic and cultural heritage, for bird watchers, for peaceful walks by spa tourists and those interested in active recreation, and for recreational sports activists,” she added.

The Haapsalu Town Government applied for and received funds for implementing the project; the first stage of the repairs of the promenade will be completed, according to schedule, by the beginning of 2010.

Enterprise Estonia launched the programme for increasing the competitiveness of regions in December 2007. The Management Board of Enterprise Estonia made the first decision in the framework of the funding period 2007-2013 in March, which was the decision to support the procurement of furnishings for the folk music centre. Enterprise Estonia has been allocated more than BEEK 13 from the structural aid of more than BEEK 53 provided for Estonia in 2007-2013. The budget for the programme for increasing the competitiveness of regions till the year 2013 is BEEK 1.5.

The purpose of the programme for increasing the competitiveness of regions is to make different regions in Estonia more attractive for entrepreneurs, investors, qualified labour force and visitors. From the programme, local governments and non-profit associations can apply for grants for implementing projects that promote local tourism and recreation management. For example, support may be applied for in developing visitor centres, museums, hiking and study trails and small ports, for exhibiting cultural and natural attractions and for developing a support infrastructure for tourism sites. With the aid of this programme, local governments can also develop the infrastructure of the local business environment; for example, establish access roads, renovate sewerage systems and re-implement former military, industrial or agricultural sites.