Municipality of Ljutomer in cooperation with the Urban Planning Institute of the Republic of Slovenia, the Development Agency Sinergija, and architect Assoc. Prof. Aleksander Ostan, organized a workshop on the renovation of Glavni trg (Main Square), its hinterland, and parking in the town center. The event, held in the Town Hall and on nearby squares and streets, attracted more than 50 participants and confirmed strong public interest in shaping the future of Ljutomer.
Renovation of the main square
The main focus of the workshop was the renovation of the square, which was last transformed 16 years ago but has since drawn widespread dissatisfaction. Residents highlighted several shortcomings: overheating due to a lack of trees and shade, poor accessibility for people with disabilities, the slippery pavement, as well as unpopular design elements such as the metal pergola and kiosks.
Traffic and parking in the square remain divisive issues. Many are disturbed by motor traffic and speeding, yet others point to a shortage of central parking. Concerns were also raised about noise from nighttime events and bar patrons, while the large tent erected during events was deemed inappropriate.
Despite differing opinions, a clear common thread emerged: the need for a “greener Ljutomer.” Participants emphasized the planting of large trees, professional maintenance of greenery, and an overall more coordinated and holistic design. Proposals included adapting the pergola with a vine trellis, relocating or redesigning kiosks, preserving and upgrading the drinking fountain, and ensuring consistent upkeep of all facilities.
Many also stressed the importance of creating a safe playground for children and additional program content for young people, such as a cultural or urban space in currently unused buildings. While opinions on introducing a larger water surface were mixed—mostly negative—there was general agreement that events should be time- and sound-limited, but the square should remain a place for meetings, socializing, and cultural activities.
Hinterland of the Main square
Discussions on the square’s hinterland closely mirrored those about the square itself. Participants noted overheated public spaces dominated by concrete and asphalt, poorly maintained new trees, and insufficient infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists. Traffic on attractive areas such as Miklošičev and Stari trg was seen as problematic, yet residents struggle to imagine these places without roads and parking.
Proposals included relocating parking to the edge of town with quality pedestrian connections, charging and greening central parking, slowing down traffic on Miklošičev trg, and reducing road surfaces on Stari trg. The most ambitious suggestion was the construction of a parking garage.
Parking
According to participants, no major problems exist with parking overall, as several lots are available in the immediate hinterland of the square, many offering free or time-limited spaces. Still, long-term occupation of parking—especially at the bus station—was criticized.
Key suggestions included greening and paving parking lots, improving pedestrian access to the square, extending restrictive regimes to new areas, and even introducing paid parking in the most desirable locations. A recurring conclusion was that within a few dozen meters of walking, enough spaces exist, and the real challenge lies in changing residents’ habits.
Conclusion
Municipal representatives expressed satisfaction with the workshop, praising the excellent participation and valuable input from residents. Together with experts, the municipality will continue the preparation of projects and the search for funds for implementation.
The event demonstrated the meaningfulness and necessity of public involvement in planning Ljutomer’s future. Further meetings on key projects are planned, ensuring that the vision of a greener, more livable, and community-oriented town is shaped together with its people.