New construction, outdoor routes and better traffic arrangements are planned for the Nupurinkallio low-density residential area
In the Nupurinkallio low-density residential area in the districts of Nupuri and Karhusuo in Espoo, plans are under way for complementary building. The planning prioritises the preservation of the natural landscape and environment. Additionally, the project aims to improve the road network and enhance traffic safety at Nupurintie intersections. As the population in the area grows, new outdoor recreational routes will also be developed. The planning process considers the area’s significant natural features and historical heritage.
The goals guiding the detailed planning of Nupurinkallio were approved in October 2024. The planning area spans approximately 230 hectares, of which 80 hectares are city-owned green and conservation areas. The area also includes several privately-owned properties where the new plan would enable additional low-density residential construction in the future.
According to architect Hugo Leppäsyrjä, the lead planner: “Land use in the area will be organised so that an area of slightly denser development will be situated south of Nupurintie, while other areas will emphasise green spaces and the open character of low-density housing.”
Balance of development and nature
An area of denser complementary building will be located between Nupurintie and Nupurinkalliontie to the west. Small-scale commercial services and, for example, the day-care centre desired by the residents could be located in this area.
Leppäsyrjä also addressed residents’ concerns about traffic safety in the area:
“The safety of the intersections of Nupurintie and its connecting roads has been a topic of discussion for a long time. Now, this will be taken into account in the planning as part of the development of the area’s street network.
The area contains many forested and rocky terrains that are intended to be preserved. Construction planned near these areas will be more spacious and nature-friendly in character. The future residential blocks will have lower density ratios, providing ample green space in the courtyards. Noise control measures along Turunväylä will influence how the southernmost part of the area is planned.
Preserving valuable natural and historical features
The area’s history is evident in numerous cultural landmarks, including early 20th-century courtyards and 1950s buildings. The plan aims to protect these structures. Additionally, the area contains several inventoried archaeological sites.
Environmental assessments have identified four key natural areas requiring special attention in the planning process: Masskärr, Mossahagen, Lake Hakjärvi’s outflow stream and the valuable sites along Nupurintie. Efforts will also focus on preserving regional and local ecological corridors marked in the master plan.
Planning for the area initially began in 2009, with goals approved in 2011. At that time, the draft plan generated mixed feedback and was put on hold pending the master plan for northern and central Espoo (POKE). The planning was later resumed. Surveys and residents’ events in 2021 revealed strong community support for preserving rocky and forested areas, which has now become a central focus of the planning process. After POKE gained legal force in early 2024, work on the plan resumed.
The participation and assessment scheme and preparatory materials prepared on the basis of the goals set in the plan will be available for review 2–31 December 2024. A residents’ event regarding the plan will be held on 4 December 2024 from 17.00 to 19.00 at Karhusuon koulu comprehensive school.
Read more about the detailed planning of Nupurinkallio on the plan website.