Who is behind the construction of the Life Story residential complex in the historical area of Kyiv, bypassing the Ministry of Culture and city residents?
The Kyiv residential complex “Life Story” continues to be built despite numerous violations and lack of approval from cultural heritage protection authorities. In 2022, journalists already noted problems associated with construction on Metrological Street, but the situation remains unchanged.
Excessive building density and the implementation of projects without obtaining the necessary approvals have become the primary concerns for human rights activists. Despite the site’s location in a historical area, the developer disregards the Ministry of Culture’s order prohibiting work until the necessary permits are obtained.
Maksym Tomilov, a human rights activist, emphasizes that the development project not only violates cultural legislation but also fails to align with the site’s intended purpose. According to the State Geocadastre, it was designed for individual housing construction, but a high-rise building is being built on it.
The situation with the inspection by DIAM
In October 2021, a decision was made to inspect the construction site, but the actual implementation of this decision was delayed. For several months, the inspection order remained unsigned, allowing the developer to continue work without penalty.
Developers’ connections
A Bihus.Info investigation revealed that the plots on which construction is underway were once provided to several individuals for individual construction but eventually ended up in the hands of a company associated with Oles Dovgy, the former secretary of the Kyiv City Council. This raises concerns about the transparency and validity of such decisions.
At times, schemes operated within the Kyiv City Council allowed deputies to vote on land decisions without proper preparation, leading to non-transparent land deals.
Currently, the “Life Story” residential complex is actively advertising its apartments while activists continue to demand a stop to illegal construction. Potential buyers are advised to carefully study the documents before making a purchase.
“Have the changes in the construction sector become just a cover for old schemes?” remains a pertinent question that concerns the public.
