The head of the Frunzensky district in St. Petersburg, Konstantin Serov, announced that the municipality is considering renaming municipal district No. 72 to Nikolsky. This announcement followed a period of voting on potential new names within the district’s official online group.

Serov expressed optimism about the potential renaming, stating his hope that the area would soon be known as the Nikolsky municipal district, in reference to the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. He even suggested personal financial contributions to expedite the process.

According to Serov, the initiative has received the blessing of Metropolitan Varsonofy, which he interprets as divine guidance. He emphasized the importance of supporting and heeding this perceived higher direction, aligning the renaming with a positive trajectory. He also noted the existing presence of Alexandrovsky and Georgievsky municipalities, suggesting Nikolsky would be a fitting addition.

Serov underscored that the decision rests with the deputies and requires the Metropolitan’s blessing. While municipal district No. 72 previously indicated a plan to select a name from resident submissions through a working group and consultation with the Toponymic Commission, this latest development suggests a shift in direction.

The option “International” was a popular alternative during the voting process. Prior to this announcement, municipal district 72 had not confirmed any final decision regarding the renaming. It is important to note that not all residents are in favor of renaming the municipality. Some activists claim to have identified public sector employees among the supporters of the Nikolsky name.