A debate is heating up in the capital over plans to build a large-scale administrative facility — a new Palace of the Republic.
The plot chosen for construction is on the outskirts of the city, beyond the Nura-Yesil Canal, and covers an impressive area that could accommodate an entire residential neighbourhood, 57 kindergartens or 51 state polyclinics.
Details of the project have been reported by journalists at NewTimes.kz.
Information about plans to build a new Palace of the Republic in Astana emerged in September, thanks to a publication by a local blogger and activist, Yerlan Sakenov.
Journalists have established that the project is overseen by the Presidential Affairs Directorate, and the site for this 'modest' construction, covering an area of 57.7 hectares, was chosen at the intersection of Fariza Ongarsynova Street and Al-Farabi Avenue.
Interestingly, not far from the planned Palace of the Republic, the capital's master plan designates another administrative facility covering 53 hectares, the developer of which is also listed as the Presidential Affairs Directorate.
It is noted that the construction may be linked to the activities of the Swiss construction company Mabetex Group, known in Astana as the developer of several major administrative facilities. The company's portfolio includes the Akorda presidential residence, the Astana Opera theatre, the new airport terminal, the Republican Diagnostic Centre, and the National Scientific Centre for Motherhood and Childhood.
It is unclear, however, why the capital needs a new Palace of the Republic when several large venues already exist for hosting events, such as the Palace of Independence, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, and the EXPO Congress Centre, among others.
Experts are sceptical about the new project. Economist Batzhan Akmoldina described the construction of the palace as a "feast during the plague", particularly against the backdrop of the president's calls to save budget funds.
Blogger Yerlan Sakenov emphasised that what the city currently needs far more are social facilities — schools, kindergartens, and palaces for schoolchildren.
The Presidential Affairs Directorate has not yet disclosed the project's details — neither the cost nor the precise concept for the future building. The only thing known is that it will be a five-storey administrative building.
Urban planning experts believe that this project most likely has a political context and is needed for the republic as a whole, rather than just for the city. But for now, one thing is clear: the construction will cost the budget a very, very substantial sum.
And yet, one question remains unresolved: does Astana really need another ceremonial palace? Would it not be wiser to invest these funds in addressing pressing social issues?
The editorial board of the FBKK has sent an official request to the capital's akimat and the Presidential Affairs Directorate in the hope of uncovering the details of the new project.