Latvia’s State Real Estate (VNI) has commenced a new tender for the future reconstruction of New Riga Theatre (JRT). The funding left unspent this year – EUR 7 million – was returned to the state budget. The government plans to divert this money to other needs. Funding is planned to be recovered in accordance with the pace of JRT reconstruction, as reported by VNI.
“Because the contract between VNI and ReRe Buve 1 has been terminated, and the contract with a new construction company is planned for next year, the Cabinet of Ministers has decided on diverting unused budget funds to other state needs. JRT project’s budget is not being reduced – its recovery will restart in the coming years in accordance with the pace of the theatre’s reconstruction,” says VNI board member Sigita Janvare.
A new tender for JRT reconstruction in accordance with architect Zaiga Gaile’s plan and theatre’s needs provides for using the “design and build” principle. In the middle of October VNI organized a meeting during which every person interested in the situation was able to ask questions and receive information about requirements of the new tender.
To improve competition among suppliers and transparency of the tender, VNI submitted documents of the tender to the Procurement Monitoring Bureau (IUB). In accordance with IUB recommendations, VNI has clarified documents of the tender. Submission of offers is planned to continue until 5 December.
Once a new contract has been signed, reconstruction of JRT will recommence in 2020.
In July State Real Estate announced termination of the contract with Rere buve 1 for the reconstruction of New Riga Theatre. The decision was made because the contracted construction company had committed multiple violations in their work. (BNN/Business World Magazine)
