New commercial development across from Busgaden on Vestergade
iSparekassen Kronjylland is fitting out a branch at 11 Vestergade and, as part of this, is extending into the rear courtyard.
Originally, the plan was to build commercial premises across Busgaden where it joins Vestergade. The premises were not intended for use by the bank, but were to be let out.
The building would have been the latest in a series of suspended premises being established above Busgaden. Busgadehuset is, of course, the oldest, but in recent years it has been joined by other developments as part of the Busgade breakthrough and a construction project extending towards Østergade. However, the plan for the cantilevered building has now been shelved.
In early 2008, the project came under scrutiny because the building would have obscured the old gable mural featuring the ‘Atomkraft, Nej Tak’ logo. The logo has its roots in Aarhus, and many felt it should be preserved. The council stated that it would be very expensive to revoke the planning permission, so there was discussion as to whether the gable could be moved, for example to the future poster museum.
However, the debate turned out to be rooted in a series of misunderstandings. The developer wanted to build three storeys above the bus lane, but the local council only granted permission for two. The developer did not believe that two storeys would make for a viable project, but assumed they were obliged to proceed with the project in accordance with the planning permission. It was only through the public debate that they realised they could opt out of the superstructure, and they subsequently announced that they would do so.
The project will therefore only comprise an extension to Otto Mønsted’s house.