CTP has begun construction on what it describes as the first two-story industrial & logistics building of its kind in the Czech Republic.
The building, which CTP refers to as a “double-decker,” will be built at CTPark Brno Lisen on the site of the former Zetor complex. When completed at the end of 2025, it will offer almost 50,000 square meters of modern, flexible space for production, logistics, and services. The project follows a successful model implemented by CTP in the Netherlands and, according to CTP, “offers a smart solution for urban brownfields by respecting the character of the location, introducing modern facilities, and making efficient use of limited space.”
According to CTP, “the two-story facility brings a completely new model of industrial development to the urban environment. It responds to the limited spatial possibilities within cities by doubling the size of the built-up area. With two separate entrances for freight traffic, each floor can operate separately, significantly broadening usage options and allowing flexible division of space for different types of operations. The building is structurally designed for high loads, partially recessed into the slope, and ready for demanding production technologies or automation.”
The new facility in Brno will offer a range of sustainable solutions, from the use of waste heat from the SAKO Brno incinerator to green infrastructure and planned charging stations for electric vehicles. Emphasis is being also placed on the efficient management of building materials, with a significant part of the demolition waste from the original building to be reused in the construction process, for example in the form of recycled concrete for road structures and industrial floors. Over 40% of the space has already been pre-leased.
“Double-decker in Brno is the answer to the challenges that every major city faces today; how to make efficient use of limited space, preserve the character of the location, and at the same time offer top-class facilities for production and technology,” explained Jakub Kodr, Managing Director at CTP in the Czech Republic. “It is not an experiment, but a thoughtful step based on experience from abroad. We paid great attention to the technical design and to ensure that the modern building fits in with its surroundings. I am convinced that the result will be not only functional but also inspiring.”
CTP reports that, in addition to the former tractor gearbox production warehouse, other parts of the premises will also be revitalized. The former forge will give way to a completely new building, which is designed to suit a specific client’s operational needs. Demolition of the original building began in May and is expected to be completed within three months. Construction of this new building will take until the end of the year, and once completed, the client will phase in operations.
Meanwhile, existing buildings at the former Zetor complex are being put to temporary use. In June 2023, CTP converted one to serve as a community hub for cultural and creative activities, and it now houses music rehearsal rooms, art studios, workshops, and spaces for small businesses.
“Transforming a former industrial site into a fully-fledged part of the city is always technically and economically challenging,” explained Michal Dospel, Regional Construction Director at CTP in the Czech Republic. “The history of the area often translates into complex construction conditions and higher costs. On the other hand, such places have enormous potential. They are part of the urban fabric, and if they are conceived smartly, they can offer more than ever before.”
As part of the further development of the site, a new pedestrian and bicycle corridor will be created to connect it with the Stranska Skala public transport stop in Brno and remove a long-standing barrier between the brownfield and surrounding neighborhoods. There are also plans to build a car park with a capacity of over 300 spaces, providing parking for employees and visitors, while easing the traffic situation in the vicinity. Currently, 22 companies operate at CTPark Brno Lisen with a total of over 1,300 employees, and CTP expects this number to grow as the site develops.
“Brno has a number of industrial areas awaiting new purpose,” noted Bretislav Stefan, Mayor of the Brno-Lisen district. “In Brno Lisen, one of them is being transformed in a way that combines modern construction, sustainability, and respect for the history of the place. We appreciate the fact that the project also provides for public space, a cycle path, and community facilities. Such development is beneficial for Brno – it increases the attractiveness of the city for other investors and brings new job opportunities.”
