Austrian director Guenter Schwaiger, who produced a documentary about the house, recently told AFP that the plans will “always be suspected” of being “in line with the dictator’s [Hitler] wishes.”
Schwaiger cited the discovery of a local newspaper article from May 10, 1939, saying Hitler’s desire was to have his birth home converted into offices for local authorities.
Schwaiger called on the Austrian government to rethink the move.
The redesign of the 8,600 square foot corner house is estimated to cost some $21.76 million.
A memorial stone with the inscription “for freedom, democracy and liberty. Never again fascism. Millions of dead remind us” is to remain in place outside the house, AP reported.
Police are expected to occupy the premises in 2026.
