Czech Parliament approves higher thresholds for small-scale contracts without tendering process

The Czech Parliament has approved an amendment to increase the financial thresholds for small-scale public contracts that can be awarded without a formal procurement procedure. Under the new rules, the threshold for supplies and services will rise from CZK 2 million to CZK 3 million, while for construction works, the limit will increase from CZK 6 million to CZK 9 million. The amendment, aimed at ensuring fair competition between European Union firms and companies from outside the EU, was recommended by the House Economic Committee as a response to rising costs.

Minister for Regional Development Petr Kulhánek (STAN) supported the increase, which is expected to exempt approximately one-third of public contracts from the procurement process. Additionally, lawmakers approved raising the threshold for mandatory contract publication from CZK 500,000 to CZK 1 million, a move intended to simplify procedures for smaller contracting authorities, including municipalities.

“The existing limits have not been adjusted for years, and given inflation, this increase is fully justified and anticipated by contracting authorities,” Minister Kulhánek stated. The decision was reached after three voting attempts, with the final approval passing by a margin of just two votes. Previous votes failed due to opposition from MPs Rudolf Salvetr (ODS) and Pavel Bělobrádek (KDU-ČSL), who questioned the proposal.

Efforts to enhance transparency in small-scale public procurement were not as successful. A proposal by Pirate Party leader Jakub Michálek, which sought to introduce a requirement for contracting authorities to disclose the selection process for contracts exceeding CZK 1 million, was rejected. The initiative, co-signed by coalition members from STAN, KDU-ČSL, and TOP 09, aimed to increase public scrutiny over spending. Minister Kulhánek expressed disappointment over the rejection, emphasizing the need for public oversight in the use of taxpayer funds.

The approved amendment, which tightens regulations on large acquisitions and public contracts involving non-EU companies, introduces closer cooperation between the Ministry of Industry and the Office for the Protection of Competition. The measure aims to enhance oversight and information sharing regarding foreign companies participating in Czech public tenders.

The legislative changes align with the European Union’s efforts to address concerns over unfair competition from Chinese firms, which have been accused of benefitting from state subsidies that distort market dynamics. The EU’s regulatory framework, introduced in 2021, aims to level the playing field by scrutinizing financial contributions provided by non-EU governments to companies operating within the bloc. The regulation defines foreign subsidies as financial contributions from third countries that confer a competitive advantage on specific companies or sectors.

The Czech government emphasized that while EU member states are bound by strict public aid regulations, foreign subsidies previously remained largely unregulated, potentially giving non-EU firms an unfair advantage. The new amendment ensures that such subsidies are monitored and their impact on the Czech market is assessed to prevent market distortions.

With the approval of these changes, Czech authorities aim to balance regulatory efficiency with market fairness, supporting both domestic businesses and the broader European economic framework.

Source: CTK

Apartment prices in the Czech Republic rise by 2.3% in Q3 2024, continuing upward trend

Apartment prices in the Czech Republic increased by 2.3% quarter-on-quarter in the third quarter of 2024, reaching an average of CZK 104,100 per square meter. This marks the fourth consecutive quarter of rising prices, according to data from the Real Index by Deloitte, as reported by the Czech News Agency. The majority of regions experienced price hikes, with the most significant increases recorded in the Zlín, Pilsen, and Ústí regions. In contrast, the South Bohemian Region saw a notable decline in prices.

A total of nearly 4,000 apartments were sold across the country during the third quarter, approximately 3,000 fewer than in the previous quarter. According to Petr Hána, director of the real estate and construction department at Deloitte, the price growth reflects continued market recovery driven by falling interest rates, reduced inflation, and lower energy costs. “The trend of rising prices, which began with improved economic conditions, continues to hold steady,” Hána stated.

Regionally, the Zlín Region saw the highest year-on-year price growth at 14.6%, followed by an 11% increase in Pilsen and Ústí regions. On the other hand, the South Bohemian Region experienced a significant price decline of 14.4%, with the Liberec Region also recording a minor drop of 1.5%.

The capital city of Prague and the South Moravian Region remain the most expensive areas for property purchases. Apartment prices in Brno rose by 6.8%, reaching CZK 111,600 per square meter. In Prague, prices climbed by 4.5% to an average of CZK 137,900 per square meter, although the rate of increase has slowed compared to the previous quarter’s 5.7% growth.

Within Prague, the highest price surge was recorded in Prague 6, where prices jumped by 25% to CZK 159,700 per square meter. Prague 1, the city’s historical center, also saw a significant increase of 17.4%, making it the most expensive district with an average cost of CZK 202,900 per square meter. Meanwhile, prices in Prague 9 rose by 7.4%, driven by ongoing new development projects. However, declines were noted in Prague 8 and Prague 2, where prices fell by nearly 10% and 2%, respectively.

Hána emphasized that the sluggish construction of new apartments remains a critical issue in the Czech real estate market, contributing to rising prices and housing shortages. “Thousands fewer apartments are being built each year than the market demands, and unfortunately, there is no sign of improvement in the near future,” he warned.

In terms of sales distribution, the majority of transactions in the third quarter were for new developments, with 1,728 units sold, including 1,012 first-time sales. Additionally, 1,011 transactions were recorded for brick buildings, while 1,209 prefabricated apartments were sold. Despite the overall slowdown in transactions, demand for modern, well-located apartments remains high.

Source: Deloitte and CTK

Inflation in Slovakia drops to 2.8% in 2024, marking steepest decline in 25 Years

Inflation in Slovakia fell to an average of 2.8% in 2024, achieving the most significant year-on-year slowdown in the past 25 years. This marked a sharp decline from the double-digit inflation rates experienced in 2022 and 2023, which stood at 12.8% and 10.5%, respectively. The moderation in price growth was primarily driven by a slowdown in food price increases and minimal hikes in housing and energy costs, according to data released by the Statistical Office of the Slovak Republic.

Throughout 2024, the rise in consumer prices was predominantly influenced by food, though its annual increase did not exceed 3%, a stark contrast to the over 17% surge recorded in 2023. Meanwhile, housing and energy costs rose marginally by just 0.5%, compared to the more than 9% increase seen the previous year. Despite this overall easing, price hikes were noted in various service sectors, such as transport, hospitality, and alcoholic beverages with tobacco products.

The deceleration in inflation was consistent throughout the year, with monthly price increases staying below 4%. The Statistical Office plans to release a separate report detailing inflation trends for December 2024.

Key Drivers of Inflation in 2024

In 2024, inflationary pressures were felt across all 12 divisions of the consumer basket, though only the education sector recorded double-digit price growth of 10.5%. Other notable increases were seen in healthcare, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and food service activities, where prices rose by more than 5%. The steepest year-on-year decline in price growth occurred in food and non-alcoholic beverages, which increased by an average of 2.5% in 2024, compared to 17.3% the previous year. Housing and energy, which make up nearly half of household expenditures in Slovakia, saw only minimal price changes.

Food remained the most significant contributor to inflation, with prices rising by 2.5% year-on-year. Increases were particularly evident in staple categories such as bread and cereals (+4%), vegetables and fruits (both over 3%), and oils and fats (+9%). On the other hand, dairy products such as milk, cheese, and eggs saw a slight price drop of 0.2%. Importantly, food price increases were substantially lower than those recorded in 2023, when some categories saw hikes of 15% to 23%.

Housing and energy prices had a dampening effect on inflation, increasing by only 0.5%. Components such as imputed rent fell by 0.8%, while solid fuel prices dropped by nearly 5%. Electricity and gas prices for households remained mostly unchanged from 2023 levels. However, price increases were recorded in waste collection fees (+15%) and other housing-related costs, such as rent and maintenance charges.

The hospitality sector also contributed to inflation, with restaurant and hotel prices rising by over 5%, driven largely by a 7.1% increase in restaurant and café prices. Alcoholic beverages and tobacco prices also rose due to adjustments in excise duties, resulting in increases of nearly 9% for spirits and 9.1% for tobacco products.

Sectoral Trends in 2024

In transportation, prices increased by 3.2%, making it the only sector where the inflation rate accelerated compared to 2023. The rise was driven primarily by a 16.5% jump in passenger transport fares, although fuel prices declined by 1.7% year-on-year.

Meanwhile, the education sector recorded the highest price growth at 10.5%, attributed to fee hikes across all levels of study, though its impact on overall inflation was limited due to its small share in household expenditures.

Outlook for Core and Net Inflation

Core and net inflation, which exclude volatile elements such as regulated prices and food costs, both stood at 2.6% for the year. Core inflation reflects the underlying price trend by excluding administrative measures such as tax changes, while net inflation provides a clearer picture of inflationary pressures by further excluding food prices.

The inflation slowdown in 2024 provides a more stable economic outlook for Slovakia, signaling the end of a period of rapid price increases and offering relief to households facing rising living costs in previous years.

Source: Statistical Office of the Slovak Republic

Nové Lido revamp: Updated zoning plan to transform the area with trams and rental apartments

The long-awaited revitalization of the Petržalka Lido, once a popular destination for swimming and leisure activities along the right bank of the Danube River, is finally moving forward with an updated zoning plan. Originally incorporated into the city’s urban development blueprint in 2006, the ambitious plan aimed to transform the area into a thriving hub featuring the Celestean Petržalka center, which encompasses both the Lido and the future Southbank district. However, despite initial enthusiasm, the project remained stagnant for nearly two decades.

Efforts to revive the plan gained momentum in recent years as city planners recognized the need for updated strategies to address the changing urban landscape and community needs. In 2023, Bratislava residents were given the opportunity to provide feedback on proposed changes to the locality, resulting in significant input that contributed to a comprehensive revision of the zoning plan. The updated plan introduces several key elements aimed at enhancing connectivity, sustainability, and livability in the area.

One of the most notable features of the revised plan is the incorporation of a tram line that will provide seamless transportation links between Petržalka and other parts of Bratislava. This new public transport initiative is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, promote eco-friendly mobility, and make the area more accessible for both residents and visitors. The tram network will complement existing infrastructure while encouraging a shift towards sustainable urban transit solutions.

In addition to improved transportation, the updated zoning plan envisions the development of hundreds of new rental apartments designed to accommodate the growing population and meet the increasing demand for modern housing options. These residential units will cater to a diverse range of inhabitants, from young professionals to families, and will be integrated with green spaces, pedestrian-friendly zones, and recreational facilities. Developers are planning a mix of high-rise and mid-rise buildings, ensuring a balanced and aesthetically pleasing urban environment that complements the natural beauty of the Danube waterfront.

The revitalization also aims to enhance the cultural and social appeal of New Lido by incorporating public amenities such as parks, waterfront promenades, cultural venues, and retail spaces. Plans include the creation of vibrant public squares, outdoor dining areas, and entertainment hubs that will foster a lively atmosphere and attract both locals and tourists. Additionally, developers are emphasizing eco-friendly construction practices, energy-efficient buildings, and sustainable water management systems to align with contemporary environmental standards.

Despite the prolonged delays, city officials and developers remain optimistic about the potential of the New Lido project to become a landmark development for Bratislava. With spatial planning nearing completion, the city is poised to witness a transformation that will redefine the right bank of the Danube as a dynamic, attractive, and sustainable urban district.

While the exact timeline for the project’s implementation remains uncertain, officials anticipate that initial construction phases could commence within the next few years. The revitalization of New Lido is expected to significantly contribute to Bratislava’s economic and social growth, offering new opportunities for business, leisure, and community engagement.

Photo: Nové Lido, JTRE

Poland’s rental housing market expected to stabilize in 2025, Otodom Reports

The Polish rental housing market is poised for a year of stability in 2025, following a period of dynamic changes in the previous year. According to an analysis by Otodom, while the supply of rental apartments is expected to continue declining, the pace of this decrease will be more moderate compared to 2024. The market is showing signs of stabilization, with rental prices remaining largely steady—rising by just 0.2% over the past year, significantly below the inflation rate.

December 2024 saw a further reduction in available rental listings. At the start of the month, Otodom recorded 22,900 active rental listings, which dropped to 20,900 by the end of the year, reflecting a 9% decline. Landlords added 11,800 new listings, which was 22% lower than in November, while 17,600 listings were closed—marking a 12.5% monthly drop. The most significant reductions in available rental properties were observed in cities such as Tri-City (-15%), Lublin, and Gniezno (-12%).

The overall downward trend in rental availability persisted throughout 2024, with exceptions during the summer holiday period and September, which experienced a temporary surge in tenant activity and rental offers. Otodom’s analyst, Milena Chełchowska, anticipates a slight rebound in available listings in early 2025, providing tenants with a broader selection.

Smaller cities experienced the most significant decline in rental listings by the end of 2024, with Olsztyn seeing a 60% drop, followed by Zielona Góra at 45%, and Szczecin and Opole at nearly 40%. In Warsaw, the decline was more moderate at 11% year-on-year.

The seasonal decrease in rental interest was also evident in December, with a 10% decline in searches compared to November. However, demand was still 7% higher compared to December 2023. The average rent across Poland reached approximately PLN 3,700 per month, a 2% increase from the previous year. When adjusted for inflation, which stood at 4.3% in November, real rental prices in most cities showed a year-on-year decrease. Notable exceptions included Zielona Góra (+17%), Olsztyn (+11%), and Bydgoszcz (+8%).

Affordability remains a challenge for many tenants, as lower-priced rentals are becoming scarcer. In December 2023, nearly half (49%) of rental searches targeted properties under PLN 3,000 per month, while 13% were for high-end rentals above PLN 6,000. By the end of 2024, interest in lower-priced properties had dropped to 44%, with demand for premium rentals rising to 15%.

The effects of government policies continued to shape the market in 2024. In the first half of the year, the “Safe Loan 2%” program led to a significant release of rental properties, as many tenants opted to purchase their own homes. However, since May 2024, this trend began to slow, with rental supply steadily decreasing, though still remaining above pre-program levels.

Looking ahead to 2025, a more gradual decline in rental availability is expected. Demand also showed a steady decrease in 2024, falling by an average of 3% month-on-month. The relatively stable rental prices, which rose only marginally over the year, suggest a new balance in the market. Barring any unforeseen external disruptions, this equilibrium is likely to persist, benefiting both landlords and tenants by enabling more predictable long-term planning.

Source: Otodom and ISBnews

Poland proposes new law to strengthen employee protection against mobbing

The Polish government has introduced a draft law aimed at enhancing employee protection against workplace mobbing while also safeguarding employers from false accusations. The Ministry of Family, Labour, and Social Policy has sent the proposal for public consultation, signaling a major update to legislation that has remained unchanged for over two decades.

According to Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk, Minister of Family, Labour, and Social Policy, the proposed amendments are necessary to reflect modern workplace realities. “After 21 years of the current regulations, it is time for changes that are better suited to today’s conditions. The new law aims to provide stronger protection for employees against undesirable behavior at work while ensuring that employers are not subjected to unfounded allegations,” she stated.

A key aspect of the draft law is the simplification of the legal definition of mobbing, focusing on persistent harassment of an employee. The new definition will encompass various forms of harassment, including physical, verbal, and non-verbal behaviors. It clarifies that mobbing must be recurrent or permanent, and excludes incidental or one-off actions from its scope. Additionally, the draft emphasizes that mobbing can originate from various sources, such as supervisors, colleagues, or subordinates, whether acting individually or as a group.

One of the significant elements of the proposal is the introduction of a “rational victim” model, which aims to differentiate between genuine cases of mobbing and subjective perceptions. This approach seeks to ensure fair assessment and to prevent the misuse of mobbing allegations.

The proposed changes also include an increase in the minimum compensation threshold for employees who have suffered harm due to workplace mobbing. The draft mandates that employers establish clear anti-mobbing and anti-discrimination policies, which must be outlined in company regulations or official notices. Employers will be required to implement preventive measures, promptly address reported cases, and offer support to affected employees.

To balance the interests of both employees and employers, the draft law includes provisions that exempt employers from legal liability in cases where mobbing did not originate from the employee’s direct supervisor, provided that the employer had implemented effective preventive measures.

The Ministry emphasized that the proposed legal reforms aim to create a healthier and more productive work environment while ensuring fair treatment for all parties involved. The public consultation process is expected to provide valuable feedback before the legislation is finalized and submitted for parliamentary approval.

Source: ISBnews

Bank Millennium forecasts Poland’s GDP growth to accelerate to 3.7% in 2025

Poland’s economic growth is expected to accelerate to 3.7% year-on-year (YoY) in 2025, driven primarily by an increase in fixed asset investments, following an estimated growth of 2.8% YoY in 2024, according to Bank Millennium’s latest forecast.

Despite a challenging global economic environment, Poland’s economic performance in 2024 was relatively strong. However, GDP growth fell slightly short of initial projections. “We had initially forecast 3% growth for last year, but we now estimate it to be around 2.8%,” said Grzegorz Maliszewski, Bank Millennium’s chief economist, during a webinar. He emphasized that despite this minor shortfall, Poland continues to stand out positively within the European Union. Over the past four years, the Polish economy has grown by nearly 14%, significantly outperforming the EU average of 5%, and far surpassing Germany, which showed minimal growth over the same period.

Looking ahead to 2025, Bank Millennium anticipates a stronger growth trajectory, primarily driven by increased investments. “We expect growth to accelerate to 3.7%, with a notable shift in its structure compared to 2024,” Maliszewski noted. The anticipated acceleration is expected to be largely supported by inflows from the National Recovery Plan (KPO) and increased utilization of EU structural funds under the new financial framework. These resources are projected to boost public investments, while the private sector is also expected to ramp up spending on machinery, equipment, and automation initiatives.

Consumption will continue to play a key role in economic expansion, although it is unlikely to see a significant acceleration compared to previous years. The bank also pointed out that low levels of fixed asset investment remain a weak spot in Poland’s economy, with 2024 witnessing further declines due to the end of the previous EU financial perspective. However, expectations for 2025 remain optimistic, supported by renewed EU funding streams.

On the external trade front, Bank Millennium foresees a slightly less favorable contribution from net exports to GDP growth. While an expected recovery in Germany will boost Polish exports, it is also anticipated to drive higher imports, leading to a marginally negative net effect on economic growth.

Overall, the bank remains cautiously optimistic about Poland’s economic prospects for 2025, with investment-led growth and stable consumption providing key pillars for expansion. “The outlook for 2025 appears more promising than the previous year, reflecting a more balanced and diversified economic structure,” Maliszewski concluded.

Source: Bank Millennium and ISBnews

Wrocław to host first zero-emission business park with completion set for 2025

Ideal Idea is in the final stages of expanding its City Park Wrocław complex, set to become the first zero-emission Small Business Units (SBU) business park in both the city and the region. This state-of-the-art development, which seamlessly integrates high-class office spaces with high-storage warehouse modules, is scheduled for completion in 2025.

The latest phase of the project has seen the completion of the building’s façade and external landscaping. The next major step involves the construction of Building H6, which will feature highly flexible warehouse modules starting from 600 square meters and office spaces from 120 square meters. These spaces are designed to cater to businesses across various industries, offering customized solutions while ensuring full operational independence. Upon completion, the total area of the business park will reach 22,000 square meters, doubling Ideal Idea’s total offering in Wrocław to 44,000 square meters.

The development incorporates a range of cutting-edge sustainable technologies, including heat pumps, photovoltaic installations, electric vehicle charging stations, and gray water recovery systems. These eco-friendly solutions will significantly reduce operational costs while helping tenants lower their carbon footprint and achieve their sustainability goals. Furthermore, these features will enhance tenants’ Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ratings, boosting their non-financial performance indicators. The entire facility will be awarded the prestigious BREEAM Excellent certification, reflecting its adherence to the highest environmental standards.

Strategically located near Mikołaj Kopernik Airport and major transportation routes, including the A4 motorway, S8 expressway, and DK94 national road, City Park Wrocław provides an optimal location for businesses seeking high-growth potential. The area benefits from excellent public transportation links to the city center, and is rapidly evolving with the addition of new hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets, making it a prime destination for businesses looking to expand their presence in Wrocław.

Ideal Idea’s City Park Wrocław is poised to set new benchmarks in sustainable commercial real estate, offering innovative, energy-efficient solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern businesses.

Sonae Sierra strengthens position in German retail market with strong 2024 performance

Sonae Sierra has demonstrated remarkable growth in the German retail sector in 2024, achieving increased sales and footfall across its managed shopping centers. The international real estate specialist reported a 2.5% year-on-year increase in sales and a 1% rise in visitor numbers across its portfolio, reinforcing its position as a leading retail property manager in Germany.

Following its second-place ranking in the Shopping Center Performance Report (SCPR) 2024, Sonae Sierra secured an impressive 111 lease agreements and extensions totaling 33,600 square meters in flagship locations such as Alexa in Berlin, Europa-Galerie Saarbrücken, Mercaden Böblingen, Mercado, Quarree Wandsbek, Ottensen in Hamburg, and Münster Arkaden. The occupancy rate across these centers stood at 94% by the end of 2024, with top performers Alexa, Mercado, and Münster Arkaden achieving an outstanding 99% occupancy rate.

Sonae Sierra’s expertise in tailored center and property management services has played a pivotal role in the strong performance of these shopping centers. Their commitment to optimizing tenant mix, enhancing retail experiences, and maintaining high operational standards has attracted major investors, including Union Investment Real Estate, Aachener Grundvermögen, and Hanse Merkur Grundvermögen, all of whom have extended their management contracts with Sierra.

Christine Hager, Director of Property Management at Sonae Sierra Germany, highlighted the company’s ability to deliver exceptional results through personalized strategies that meet the evolving needs of tenants and business partners. She emphasized that the trust placed in Sonae Sierra by both national and international retailers underscores the company’s commitment to excellence in the industry.

The leasing success of 2024 was marked by high-profile tenants such as Stradivarius, Pull&Bear, Bershka, and the non-food discounter Action. These brands expanded their presence in key locations such as Alexa in Berlin and Europa-Galerie Saarbrücken. Additionally, several anchor tenants, including H&M, Thalia, C&A, dm Drogerie, TK Maxx, and P&C, renewed their contracts, further strengthening the retail offering and reinforcing customer loyalty.

Dirk von der Ahé, Leasing Manager at Sonae Sierra Germany, emphasized the importance of strategic leasing in maintaining vibrant shopping environments. He noted that Sierra’s leasing services, introduced separately from management mandates in 2024, have been instrumental in attracting new tenants and curating an optimal retail mix.

Throughout the year, flagship properties across Germany achieved notable milestones. Alexa in Berlin welcomed 19 new tenants, including major brands like Skechers, Lindt, Lacoste, and Union Berlin. In Saarbrücken, the Europa-Galerie expanded its fashion segment with the introduction of Pull&Bear and Bershka, while Mercaden Böblingen celebrated its tenth anniversary with new openings such as Telekom, Takko Fashion, and the innovative “Cool! Arena.”

In Hamburg, Mercado Altona saw 99% of its space leased, with new additions such as Ruff’s Burger, Blume2000, and Dragon Wok. Meanwhile, Münster Arcaden secured 14 new leases, retaining key tenants such as dm Drogerie and Manufactum, and achieving near-full occupancy. The culinary landscape of Quarree Wandsbek expanded with Café Amaya and Dil India, with further additions planned for 2025.

Looking ahead, Sonae Sierra continues to focus on delivering exceptional value to its tenants and stakeholders, driving growth and innovation in the German retail property market.

New truck weighing and speed measurement systems launched on D4 motorway Prague to Písek

As of Wednesday, January 22, 2025, the newly constructed sections of the D4 motorway will be equipped with high-speed weighing and speed measurement systems, marking a significant advancement in road safety and traffic monitoring. The deployment of these technologies has been approved by the traffic police, who have assessed the methodology and are legally responsible for speed enforcement.

Two high-speed weighbridges have been installed on the D4 motorway—one in the Prague to Písek direction and the other in the opposite direction. These advanced Weight-in-Motion (WIM) systems allow for the real-time monitoring of a vehicle’s total weight, individual axle load, and various other parameters without causing any disruption to traffic flow.

Drivers found exceeding the weight limit will receive an instant notification via electronic information boards displaying their license plate number and the excess weight in tonnes. This immediate feedback aims to deter overloaded vehicles, ensuring the longevity and quality of the newly completed motorway infrastructure.

The high-speed weighing system will operate 24/7, initially for statistical data collection. However, at predetermined intervals, a penalty enforcement regime will be activated, resulting in fines for hauliers who exceed the legal weight limits. The enforcement of these penalties will be managed by the municipal authorities in Příbram and Písek, with each city overseeing one weighbridge’s administrative process.

In addition to the weighbridges, the sectional speed measurement system has been implemented along the D4 motorway. Eight designated sections in each direction are equipped with speed enforcement cameras. Responsibility for enforcement is divided between the two administrative regions—Příbram in Central Bohemia and Písek in South Bohemia—each handling four sections.

Speed monitoring will be conducted selectively, with one section in each direction being monitored at any given time. The selected sections will rotate periodically, and drivers will be notified of active speed enforcement through variable message signs displaying the message “Sectional speed measurement in progress.” These notifications will be displayed unless other mandatory traffic alerts take precedence.

The speed limits for vehicles using the motorway remain as follows: 130 km/h for vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes and buses, while heavier motor vehicles exceeding 3.5 tonnes must adhere to an 80 km/h limit.

Authorities believe that the introduction of these advanced monitoring systems will significantly enhance road safety, reduce vehicle overloading, and encourage compliance with speed limits, contributing to a safer and more efficient driving experience on the D4 motorway.

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