Tbilisi mayor: former Communications Ministry building to retain original appearance after reconstruction

The former Communications Ministry building on Rustaveli Avenue will largely retain its original appearance following reconstruction, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze said at a municipal government meeting on Wednesday.

Kaladze also rejected information circulating on social media that the building is a listed cultural heritage monument and therefore cannot be reconstructed.

“Perhaps you have seen videos on social media spreading false information that the former Communications Ministry building is an immovable cultural heritage monument and, consequently, that its reconstruction is prohibited. I state with full responsibility that this building is not a cultural heritage monument. It will not be a multi-story residential building; rather, a hotel will be located here. According to the project, the existing portal - the entrance from Rustaveli Avenue - will be preserved,” Kaladze said.

He added the building had previously been classified as being in the third- to fourth-degree emergency condition.

“I think that after reconstruction, this building will truly enhance Rustaveli Avenue. An extension will also be constructed in accordance with the building’s original appearance, on the side of Lesia Ukrainka Street,” Kaladze said.