The former Motel Panorama, located between Rijeka and Opatija, has been in a horrendous state of decay in recent years. As the coast is lacking in accommodation units, it’s a terrible shame the hotel facilities on such a favourable location have remained unused for such a long time, but as it turns out, there might be some hope on the horizon.
Head of the Regional Chamber of Commerce in Rijeka Vidoje Vujić announced the site will soon enter the first phase of a large-scale renovation project, reports Novi list. A building permit has recently been obtained, so there’s a good chance of applying for EU funds to cover a part of the planned investment of 140 million kuna. The first phase will sum up to a total of 30 million, depending on the required equipment, and it might be completed as early as 2018. The former accommodation facilities will be turned into a modern scientific centre: the project entails a renovation of the central object, as well as reconstructing additional spaces to house a centre for research, development and innovation.
“I believe that MEKCI (Mediterranean Centre for Education and Innovation) will become an educational instutiton for people coming from the entire Mediterranean area, and I’m especially proud the project is getting realised in collaboration with the University of Rijeka, Jadran Galenski Laboratory and the Ruđer Bošković Institute”, said Vujić.
EU funding might cover 60-65% of the renovation expenses, and all other partners can independently invest in their own infrastructure at the site. It will be the first centre of its kind in Primorsko-goranska County.
Motel Panorama became popular after it opened in 1965, and it was mostly aimed at truck drivers who passed along the Adriatic Highway. It’s been vacant for a long time, and we found a video showing its current state that you can watch below. Let’s hope the renovation projects kicks off as soon as possible, transforming the site into a proper prestigious entrance to the Opatija Riviera!
