Controversial Playground at Máj Shopping Mall to be Dismantled

The owner of the recently renovated Máj department store in Prague has announced that an unauthorized outdoor playground on the building’s roof will be removed and replaced with a parking area.

Karolína Šnejdarová, a spokesperson for Prague 1, confirmed the news, stating that the change is in line with the building’s original permit and approved plans.

The Máj department store, which is owned by Amadeus Real Estate, reopened in June after a complete reconstruction.

Last week, the Prague 1 construction office received notice from the investors that they had withdrawn their application for an additional permit to legalize the playground.

“All playground equipment is being dismantled, with the process expected to be completed by the end of September. The fifth-floor terrace will then be restored to its approved use as a parking area,” Šnejdarová said.

Martin Klán, a board member of Amadeus Real Estate, explained to Hospodářské noviny that the issue arose due to an oversight by the playground contractor.

“It seems the contractor mistakenly considered the installation of mobile play elements as a non-construction modification, which typically does not require a permit,” Klán said.

The Máj shopping mall reopened to the public on June 24 after a two-year renovation costing CZK 4.5 billion.

The building spans nine floors, offering shops, restaurants, entertainment centers, and a rooftop observation deck. Even before its reopening, the building drew criticism for the installation of large moving butterflies on its facade.

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