Krzysztof Matyjaszczyk, mayor of Częstochowa, recently visited Raków Stadium, where the second phase of the facility’s expansion is nearly complete. During the visit, he informed the club’s management about plans to acquire the former Elanex factory site, where a modern football arena could be built in the future.

City prepares to acquire Elanex land

The former Elanex site is currently managed by a liquidator after the company’s closure. The city is attempting to acquire the land through a court auction, seeing it as a strategic location for a state-of-the-art football stadium for Raków Częstochowa.

However, these plans have encountered obstacles. In June, the Regional Monument Conservator placed nearly the entire complex—including the former spinning mill and most of its buildings, around eight hectares—under heritage protection. While the Motte Mansion and some residential buildings were already listed in 2018, the new decision expanded the protected area significantly.

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The conservator stated that the site represents a valuable example of textile industry heritage. The city, however, argues that many buildings are in poor condition and risk collapse. Officials also noted that in 2016, when the site was in better condition, the conservator did not see the need for protection. Częstochowa has appealed the decision to the Minister of Culture and National Heritage. Despite these challenges, the city plans to secure funds for the land acquisition. Ownership of the plots is considered a key step toward obtaining external funding—both public and private—for constructing a new stadium for Raków.

© Foto: Jakub Ziemianin (Rakow.com)

Mayor’s promises and threat of a referendum

Mayor Matyjaszczyk has reiterated his commitment to sports development. On Facebook, he posted a photo in front of the abandoned Elanex buildings: A new stadium for Raków and other investments are getting closer. We are securing funds to purchase the Elanex site. Let’s make the most of this location.

However, his announcement sparked criticism. Residents and social media users accused the mayor of long-standing unfulfilled promises. Comments included: Please. Scare a politician and suddenly he acts like he’s working! and Years of promises and nothing has moved. You’re deceiving residents again.

This criticism relates to an initiative for a referendum to potentially remove the mayor. The first discussions emerged in June. The Elanex Group association claims that city authorities have presented unrealistic visions for the stadium on the former spinning mill site, while the city faces financial and social challenges.

The Electoral Commissioner confirmed the registration of the referendum initiative. From August 25, residents could sign the petition. The committee is led by Dariusz Goliszek, a well-known chess player who unsuccessfully ran for a council seat in 2018. This is his second attempt to remove Matyjaszczyk. Piotr Pałgan from the Elanex Group also announced a signature-collection campaign in September. Whether the referendum will take place and be binding remains uncertain, but it is increasingly plausible.

© Foto: Jakub Ziemianin (Rakow.com)

Broader context

The situation surrounding Elanex highlights the complex intersection of urban development, heritage preservation, and local politics in Poland. Balancing the protection of historical sites with the need for modern infrastructure presents a significant challenge for city authorities. Residents and stakeholders are closely monitoring how Częstochowa will navigate these competing interests, particularly given the financial and social pressures the city faces.

The resolution of the Elanex case will likely have long-term implications for urban planning and sports development in the city. It also serves as a case study for other municipalities dealing with similar conflicts between heritage protection and modern development needs.

© Foto: Jakub Ziemianin (Rakow.com)

Modernization of Limanowskiego stadium

While the debate over the Elanex site continues, significant progress has been made on the modernization of the existing Raków stadium on Limanowskiego Street. The 18.1 million PLN project includes multiple upgrades designed to enhance both player facilities and spectator experience. The main building is being expanded to include rehabilitation, administrative, and training spaces. Renovation works are also taking place in auxiliary buildings, with additional floors dedicated to training facilities.

The stadium’s upgrades also feature the construction of new training pitches with advanced irrigation systems and heated turf, ensuring year-round usability. Sanitary, medical, and technical facilities are also being upgraded to meet professional standards. The construction work is being carried out by AMB Budownictwo, with completion planned for September.

Over recent years, the city has invested nearly 37 million PLN in the modernization of the Limanowskiego stadium. When combined with grants for youth development programs, promotional agreements, and support for local sporting events, total investments in Raków Częstochowa’s development have reached approximately 65 million PLN. These efforts underscore the city’s commitment to supporting both local sports infrastructure and community engagement.