New Tartu apartments raise fears of nightlife clashes

Several bars in Tartu’s Old Town are concerned that 53 new apartments being built on Rüütli Street will bring noise complaints and conflicts with residents, ERR reported. The city says both bars and housing must fit into the Old Town.

The building, constructed in 1838 at the corner of Gildi and Rüütli streets, has previously housed a cloth factory, a girls’ school and an outpatient clinic. After standing empty for several years, it is now being converted into offices and 53 mainly one- and two-room apartments.

Bar owners nearby fear the new residents could complain about nighttime noise. Karin Kiplok, owner of Kivi bar, said Rüütli Street is in the heart of Tartu and has the city’s busiest nightlife. She questioned why guest apartments were being allowed on a street where nightlife-related problems were already known.

Jaan Tover, who owns several bars near the planned apartments, said the city was not doing enough to prevent nightlife-related problems. Businesses on Rüütli Street were left to deal with any resulting disputes themselves, he said.

Developer Livida said it had drawn up its plans with the location in mind. Its managing partner, Kaarel Kiidron, said the apartments would mostly be smaller homes likely to attract younger people without children, who might be less affected by the disturbance. He added that the building’s windows and ventilation openings would need to be designed carefully.

Some prospective buyers have been informed about the noise on Rüütli Street, but residents say not all problems are immediately apparent. Triin Varul said weekend vibrations caused by music entered her window through the wall of a neighbouring building. She said she had expected noise and crowds, but had not anticipated the vibration.

Tartu Deputy Mayor Kertu Vuks said the city expected housing, bars and cafes to coexist in the Old Town. Noise problems affecting new residents would be addressed on a case-by-case basis, she said.

Vuks added that the city also wanted bars and community venues to remain viable in locations beyond Rüütli Street. Bars would not be required to leave Rüütli Street, she said, and businesses could choose the location most suitable for them.