Tallinn Ponders Opening Russalka Beach
Tallinn Deputy Mayor, Arvo Sarapuu, said that the city is planning a study to see whether opening the beach strip near the Russalka statue in Kadriorg is possible.
"The city center district government, in cooperation with Tallinn's Environment Department and Municipal Engineering Services Department, will order a thorough study on reopening of the Russalka beach. The study should show possible costs of infrastructure, running costs, and of course environmental indicators (water tests, etc.)," Sarapuu said, speaking in front of the city council on Wednesday.
The beach was designated an official swimming area in 1812, the first in Tallinn, Eesti Päevaleht said at the beginning of June.
The beach lost popularity at the beginning of the last century when Tallinn attracted more industry and it was eventually closed due to pollution from the port of Tallinn and sewage pipes.
Sarapuu said modern environmental technology has decreased pollution in the area.