Helsinki residents are fighting a construction project that would place two office towers at the end of a prominent bridge. The buildings would partially block views of the Crusell Bridge, a recognized city landmark.
Construction company SRV plans to build two office towers at the southern end of Crusell Bridge in Jätkäsaari's Saukonpaadenranta area. The development has sparked strong opposition from local residents.
More than 2,800 people have signed a petition against the project. They argue the office buildings would destroy the bridge's symbolic value and block waterfront views.
The bridge's lead designer Pekka Pulkkinen opposes the plan. He stated the city originally wanted Crusell Bridge to become a landmark when it opened about 15 years ago. Pulkkinen believes the office towers would compromise the bridge's visual impact.
SRV defends the location on its website. The company claims the canal-side setting offers premium working conditions with top-class views of the Ruoholahti channel.
Helsinki's urban planning department has prepared a zoning amendment to accommodate the office buildings. One tower could potentially function as a hotel under the proposal.
The current zoning allows for two two-story service buildings. The new plan would replace them with approximately five-story structures targeting headquarters-level office space.
Local residents submitted their petition in mid-October. City officials confirmed they will consider the petition as feedback during committee review.
The zoning proposal is scheduled for review by the city environment committee in late January 2026. If approved, it will proceed through public display and further committee reviews before a final city council decision.
The controversy highlights Helsinki's ongoing tension between urban development and preserving public spaces. As the city grows, residents increasingly demand protection of waterfront access and landmark views that define their neighborhoods.