White three-dimensional letters instead of colorful signs, wooden structures instead of plastic doors and windows in historic development. How the design code will change the appearance of commercial facilities and whether entrepreneurs will have to urgently spend on retrofitting was explained by Larisa Kovaleva, head of the Architecture and Urban Planning Department of the Gomel City Executive Committee.

• Special attention in the design code is given to the historic center. What should change first?

– I would first of all pay attention to advertising and entrance groups. In the historic part we will gradually move away from plastic doors and windows. For such buildings this material is not suitable, therefore replacement with wooden structures is envisaged. Another important point is the improvement of the area around entrance groups and, of course, advertising. It is precisely these elements that today especially noticeably affect the perception of historic development.

– Many shops, cafés and other commercial facilities already have their own design. What will happen to signs and entrance groups that do not comply with the design code?

– There is no need to demand that owners urgently replace everything. There are deadlines for placing advertising structures, renting premises, land plots. When a person applies for renewal, we also look at the external appearance of the object. The design must be agreed upon, bringing it as close as possible to the requirements of the design code. If a sign is clearly outdated and the owner has not approached anyone for a long time, the administration will invite him, issue a prescription and suggest bringing the object into order. But overall the process will be gradual.

• One of the most noticeable requirements concerns signs. What should they be like in the center?

– In the historic part of the city, white three-dimensional letters without a backing, directly on the facade, are envisaged. In other parts of the city, on main streets, other color solutions may be considered. However, signs should not cover important elements

– Everything will proceed smoothly. When the validity period of a permit or contract expires, a person comes to renew it, and they are explained what requirements apply on this street and how the object should look.

An entrepreneur operating in the city center must understand that they are responsible not only for their business but also for how their object fits into the overall urban environment. This applies to facades, entrance groups, and outdoor café areas.