The charming little town in the Balaton Uplands is enriched with a modern market square

During the investment, STRABAG will modernise the rainwater drainage system in addition to the complete, approximately 1,500 square metre covering of the outdoor sales areas. The comprehensive renovation, which began in the middle of summer, is expected to be completed by February 2026.

Modernisation is progressing according to schedule

In the first phase of construction, in addition to installing the drainage system, the eastern side of the market will be rebuilt, including the delivery road. The construction process was preceded by the demolition of the poor-quality pavement, substructures, kerbstones and old drainage system of the outdoor market area, during which approximately 753 m3 of material was excavated and removed from the site. Then, the construction of the new 231-metre-long rainwater drainage system could begin on Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Street, on the eastern side of the market and the market hall.

Some of the dismantled basalt kerbs will be recycled. Above the new rainwater drainage channel and at the junction of the basalt kerbs, the pavement will be restored on a CKt base with the construction of an asphalt binder and wearing course, with the new asphalt ensuring a durable, aesthetic finish.

Freight transport conditions are improving

In the second phase of the works, development works will be carried out on the western market square. Work inside the market hall will be carried out in parallel with both phases, taking into account the hall's opening hours and the traders' operations. In addition to improving conditions for pedestrian traffic, the infrastructure serving delivery vehicles will also be modernised and expanded.

The ramp at the north-western corner of the hall will be rebuilt, while a new access road will be constructed to the north-eastern part of the building, thus ensuring smooth and two-way goods transport.

The goods loading road will remain in the centre of the market with a weight limit of 3.5 tonnes, and its route will be clearly marked with 1,526 m² of new paving stones.

Modern sales counters, indoor comfort with renewable energy

The market's former outdoor counters will be replaced by 36 new sales tables with hot-dip galvanised steel legs and granite tops. A drinking fountain will also be installed for vendors and visitors. Infrared panels will be installed in the enclosed space of the market hall to increase comfort, with the energy required for their operation provided by 18 solar panels, which are expected to cover the annual electricity consumption of the heating panels. The development also includes the installation of a new main distribution board and electricity meter, as well as a fire isolation switch and a high-voltage cable network in the building.

The row of plane trees is expanding and better conditions are being provided for the trees.

As part of the green space renewal, the soil in the root zone of the four existing plane trees will be replaced and four new plane trees will be planted. The trees will be protected with protective cages. The root zone will be replaced by manual excavation and backfilling. Based on a joint decision by the client and the designer, the contractor will expand the trees' living space with additional technical solutions.

The work is carried out by a team of 5–15 people, supported by a rubber-tyred and a rubber-tracked excavator, a mini loader, a roller and two lorries. The market is located in a residential area bordered by public roads, so minimising noise, dust and traffic pollution is a priority during construction.

Traditional function in a modern environment

Upon completion of the development, the town of Tapolca will be enriched with a modern, energy-efficient and aesthetically pleasing market square that will serve the needs of local producers, vendors, residents and the operator alike. The investment project implemented under STRABAG contributes to the renewal of Tapolca's urban infrastructure and the achievement of sustainable urban development goals, setting an example of how traditional urban functions and modern technology can be harmonised.