Detailed planning of Heikintori is progressing in Tapiola – starting points for plan are renovation of the prestigious shopping centre and housing development
A reference plan has been prepared for the Heikintori detailed plan. The starting points for the reference plan are the renovation of the local shopping centre and the development of a residential building to replace a parking building. The planning work has examined the suitability of the current shopping centre building for a number of different uses, with the aim of ensuring its vitality throughout the building’s future lifecycle. The aim is to revitalise the area while maintaining the characteristics of its significant cultural environment.
City planning in progressing in the Tapiola area, as a new plan is being prepared for the Heikintori detailed plan. The starting point of the new plan is that the architecturally valued Heikintori shopping centre will be renovated while its valuable characteristics are respected and preserved.
In the new plan, the parking facility on the west side of Heikintori will be demolished, and a block of flats will be built in its place. At the same time, the plan aims to rearrange Heikintori’s surroundings to improve comfort in the area.
“I am glad that the development of Heikintori is gaining momentum again. Heikintori is an important part of the everyday life of many Tapiola residents, and they have wished for its renovation and revitalisation for a long time. It would be great if it became once again a place where city residents can spend their time,” says Architect Aino Kuusimäki, who leads the preparation of the plan.
New use options for Heikintori and a residential building instead of a parking facility
The owner of the property, Citycon Finland Oy, is behind the reference plan for Heikintori. In the new reference plan, different use options have been prepared for the shopping centre. The renovation and restoration of Heikintori is the starting point for all of them. The different use options explored include health and welfare services, an office hotel and a combination of different business premises, services and commercial premises. All of these have been found to be well-suited to Heikintori’s framework. The new block of flats is planned for the site of the current parking facility at the corner of Kauppamiehentie and Pohjantie.
“The Heikintori property and its iconic shopping centre deserve a new life. Even in the new plans, you can walk through the shopping centre along the central corridor. In this way, the building will remain open to all,” says Kuusimäki.
The participation and assessment scheme as well as the preparation material will be available for public review 7 October–5 November2024. During this period, the preliminary plan options can be reviewed and commented on. In addition, a residents’ evening on the topic of city planning in Tapiola will be held on 22 October. This is an opportunity to discuss the detailed plan with the persons planning the area. On 29 October 2024, a planning walk in the Heikintori area will be held for anyone interested in the plan.