Helsinki officials are moving forward with a controversial plan to build apartment buildings in a popular park area. The proposal would construct housing for approximately 630 new residents in West Herttoniemi.
Construction would occur partially on existing green spaces in Oravapuisto and Kettupuisto parks. This has sparked significant local opposition from residents who value the area's green spaces.
Politicians will make the final decision about the development plan. The city environment committee is currently reviewing an updated proposal with only minor changes.
West Herttoniemi is known for its 1950s architecture and spacious green areas. The neighborhood contains buildings considered nationally significant cultural environments.
The plan includes two five-story buildings in Oravapuisto and four lower buildings in Kettupuisto. These would be built alongside the existing single-family home area.
Park surface areas in Suksipuisto and Oravapuisto would shrink somewhat under the proposal. Officials promise the parks will receive qualitative improvements simultaneously.
Winter sledding will continue to be possible in Oravapuisto according to city promises. The development plan has been under consideration since 2023.
Last year, politicians returned the plan to officials for adjustments. They requested assessments from children's and bats' perspectives along with parking reviews.
The children's impact assessment conducted this spring noted a positive aspect. Larger family apartments would become available in the area through the infill construction.
Bat surveys found only one daytime bat hiding place in a residential building attic. Bats primarily hunt in Suksipuisto during early autumn but prefer the Old Town Bay area.
The proposal represents Helsinki's ongoing challenge balancing housing needs with preserving green spaces that residents clearly value.