Discussion at the residents’ event for Kaitaa and Soukka focused on the Espoonlahti plans, construction, traffic and nature
Approximately one hundred participants came to the Lippulaiva library on 19 March 2025 for a fair-like residents’ event. As usual, the attendees had the opportunity to visit different stations dedicated to specific plans and speak with the planners about city planning and topical plans. Several Espoo elected officials were also present to talk with residents.
In addition to the plans for Kaitaa, Soukka and Kiviruukki, other Espoonlahti plans could also be asked about and commented on at the event. Attendees could also take a closer look at the Alakartanontie plan, which was available for public review until 1 April 2025. In addition, the draft plans for the initial phase of Tiiliskivenkuja were reviewed in a separate workshop under the guidance of the planner and the architectural consultant.
Plans a hot topic at several information points
At the Soukka information point, the most discussed topic was the Alakartanontie plan. Essi Seiskari, who leads the preparation of the plan, says that “the discussion highlighted the adequacy of the number of parking spaces and how the construction will affect the local view. People were not happy about the felling of the trees in the plan area. The discussion was good and constructive during the event.” In other Soukka plan projects, residents were interested in the implementation schedule.
Several topics, such as Hannusranta, the plot of the Iivisniemi shopping centre and the development of Iiviskallio, sparked discussion at the Kaitaa information point. The construction presented in the plan of the Kaitaa metro centre was considered a bit too efficient. Attendees hoped that the plan would preserve more trees and forest.
At the Kiviruukki information point, residents debated the Tiilismäenrinne plan, in which the construction of high buildings is planned next to an area dominated by single-family houses. The shading effect of the new buildings was of particular concern. Traffic issues in the southern part of Kiviruukki were also raised in the discussion. The participants also gave feedback on other Kiviruukki plans.
Master planning experts were also present to discuss things with the residents. Residents considered the Espoo Master Plan 2060 draft to be good, but many also believe that the draft has room for improvement.
At the midpoint of the event came Planning Manager Liisa Ikonen‘s review of the plans for Espoonlahti, Essi Seiskari’s presentation of the plans for the Alakartanontie plan and Architect Patrik Otranen’s overview of the Kaitaa metro centre plan.
The Lippulaiva library was a good event space and created a relaxed atmosphere for the occasion. Several attendees thanked the personnel of the City Planning Department for organising regional residents’ events. Attendees were also pleased with the opportunity to talk with planners face-to-face.
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