Thursday, 16 October 2025
The long-abandoned Szombierki Heat and Power Plant in Bytom, one of Upper Silesia’s most iconic industrial monuments, is set to be transformed into a major cultural, leisure, and business complex. The project, led by Arche S.A., has been awarded EU funding under the Just Transition Fund and will breathe new life into the century-old site while preserving its historic character.
According to official data from the Silesian Voivodeship and Bytom City Hall, the total investment value is estimated at PLN 505 million, of which approximately PLN 84 million (€19 million) will be financed through EU grants. The funds come from the programme Fundusze Europejskie dla Śląskiego 2021–2027, designed to support post-industrial regions transitioning away from coal-based economies.
The project will convert the former power plant — which ceased operation in 2011 — into a multi-functional destination for sport, recreation, hospitality, and cultural events. Plans include a pool complex, squash and badminton courts, an outdoor gym, and accessible facilities for people with disabilities. The wider complex will feature a 200-room hotel, gastronomic and retail zones, a conference and exhibition centre, and flexible spaces for concerts, fairs, and business meetings.
Local authorities say the redevelopment will create at least 150 new jobs within the complex and additional employment in supporting services such as hospitality, logistics, and crafts. “The revitalisation of Szombierki will not only preserve one of Upper Silesia’s architectural landmarks but also open new opportunities for sustainable tourism, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange,” said Bytom Mayor Mariusz Wołosz when announcing the EU grant.
Developer Arche S.A., known for repurposing historic sites across Poland, confirmed that the project will combine heritage conservation with modern, energy-efficient design principles. The company’s EU funding disclosure states that the redevelopment will include environmental and digital innovation measures, such as improved energy efficiency, re-use of materials, and the application of smart management technologies. The architectural concept was prepared by Bulak Studio.
A dedicated sub-project titled “Creation of Public Sports and Recreation Infrastructure as Part of the Revitalisation of the Szombierki Power Plant Complex in Bytom” received a separate EU grant of PLN 46.4 million, according to Arche’s official EU project register.
While the EU funding decision confirms the project’s selection for support, Arche S.A. notes that the formal financing agreement is still being finalised before disbursement begins. Construction works are expected to start following the signing, with phased implementation over the next several years.
The revitalisation is expected to position the Szombierki complex as a new landmark for Upper Silesia, combining industrial heritage, sustainable redevelopment, and community-focused facilities.
