The pace of renovation depends in part on the city’s financial situation, but EU funds may also be obtained, she added.

City-owned Budapest Gyógyfürdői és Hévizei bought the spa and the 67-room hotel next to it at an auction in May for Ft 5 billion as the only bidder.

The city had set aside Ft 7.4 billion for the purchase.

Németh called it a huge mistake that the city under previous mayor István Tarlós prevented the opening of the facility in 2010, as the spa was beautifully renovated at the time, ready for use, as was the hotel.

Since then, the condition of the properties has deteriorated rapidly, especially that of the spa, which will need to be renovated again, she said.


MTI Photo: Zoltán Máthé