Staicele Factory Chimney Collapse Raises Safety and Heritage Questions
Approximately six meters of the upper part of the chimney has collapsed from the historic 50-meter chimney at the former paper factory in Staicele, prompting concerns from local residents and a response from municipal authorities. Built in 1912, the century-old structure towers roughly the height of a 16-story building—eclipsing the 42.7-meter height of the Freedom Monument in Riga. The incident has intensified a protracted dispute between property owners and cultural heritage officials over whether the deteriorating industrial landmark should be partially dismantled or completely demolished.
The structural failure occurred days ago, drawing immediate concern from nearby residents who contacted the Bez Tabu program on TV3. One local resident warned that the destruction of the structure may continue and urged authorities to prepare an official report forcing the owner to take corrective action. Opinions among local townspeople regarding the overall danger of the site remain divided, but the Limbaži municipal government confirmed that a legitimate threat exists. Council representative Girts Vilciņš stated that damage is visible even at the base of the chimney, prompting the local administration to support the complete demolition of the damaged structure.
Factory owner Evija Apine maintains that the situation remains under control and noted that no injuries occurred during the collapse. Apine stated that relevant authorities were informed of the aging facility’s declining technical condition as early as 2024. The primary obstacle to addressing the hazard lies in the regional cultural monument status assigned to the former factory complex, which spans 9,764.1 square meters. Apine explained that she has spent several years attempting to coordinate a comprehensive demolition plan with the National Heritage Board while preserving salvageable elements, though the process demands significant time and financial investment.
While the National Heritage Board previously advocated for a partial dismantling strategy focused solely on removing the dangerous upper section, the owner insists on total removal. The heritage agency contends that the historic chimney remains a vital component of Staicele’s local identity and is currently awaiting a revised proposal from the property owners. As private property rules prohibit unauthorized civilian access to the grounds, municipal leaders, heritage regulators, and private owners continue to seek a workable compromise for the unstable structure.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Staicele Chimney Collapse
When was the historic Staicele factory chimney built?
The 50-meter-high brick chimney was constructed in 1912, making it over 110 years old. Its height is comparable to a 16-story building.
Who owns the former paper factory site in Staicele?
The property is owned by Evija Apine, who has managed the site while attempting to coordinate its future status with cultural heritage authorities.
What do municipal authorities recommend doing with the structure?
The Limbaži municipal government supports the complete demolition of the chimney due to visible structural damage detected near its base.
Why hasn’t the chimney been demolished yet?
The former paper factory holds the status of a regional cultural monument, requiring the owner to navigate strict heritage protection laws and coordinate plans with the National Heritage Board.
