Nordicum - Real Estate Annual Finland 2017 | Page 28

Photo : 3D Render / City Planning Department Helsinki

Ready for Big Time

Powered by Vision 2050 , Helsinki ’ s new city plan is a strong enabler for growth
In October 2016 , the Helsinki City Council approved the new city plan after a heated six-hour discussion – during the night , the councillors took the floor nearly 150 times . But , as the dust settled , there was a brand new city plan which promises to steer the development of Helsinki far into the future .

T he purpose of the plan is to provide

the preconditions for growth , housing production and economic development . The reservations made in the plan enable Helsinki to grow to at least 860,000 residents and 560,000 jobs by 2050 .
But why is the city plan subject to such intense debate ? Well , the Helsinki city plan is a comprehensive , general plan for future land use , laying out the guidelines and basis for zoning . Every detailed plan is drawn in an interactive process and requires approval by the City Council . This city plan map and its markings guide city planning until approximately 2030 , or until a new city plan is drawn up .
Also , the city plan does not exactly materialise overnight . This particular proposal was prepared for over four years under the guidance of the City Planning Committee . Along the way , Helsinki residents participated in the preparation at various events and meetings and by giving feedback in the form of opinions and commentary .
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