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Helsinki City Environment Division has confirmed that zoning proposals for the redevelopment of Itäkeskus and the Puotila metro station area will proceed to decision-making on 25 March. The plans involve transforming the area between the Stoa cultural centre and Puhos shopping centre into a more urban city centre for East Helsinki.
The proposals outline housing for approximately 2,300 residents. Construction could begin in 2026.
The area currently includes large retail buildings, car parks and major roadways. The new urban design is based on a concept competition held in 2020. The plans aim to increase residential density and improve public spaces near public transport and services.
The zoning preserves key architectural and cultural features while supporting new public infrastructure. The city plans to renovate and expand the Stoa cultural centre and preserve the original fan-shaped section of the Puhos shopping centre. Public outdoor areas will be built around both.
Stoanaukio, the square in front of Stoa, will be expanded and developed into a site for public events. Construction around the square will continue through the new Kastelholmankuja corridor toward the rear of the Puhos site.
The plan includes the so-called “Helminauhakortteli” block, which connects Stoanaukio to new pedestrian areas with commercial premises and terraces. Mikko Näveri, lead architect for the project, said the design focuses on creating a high-quality walking environment and accessible public spaces.
The current site of a daycare centre west of Stoanaukio has been studied as a potential location for either a concert hall or supported housing with commercial premises at street level. The daycare will move to a new building in Rusettipuisto in 2026.
A new park, Stoanpuisto, will be built between Turunlinnantie, the expanded Stoa and Puhos. The newer sections of the Puhos centre will be replaced with new housing blocks. These buildings will include approximately 4,500 square metres of commercial space on the ground floor.
Businesses currently operating in retail premises that will be demolished will be given priority access to new units either in the new buildings or in the renovated parts of the preserved Puhos centre.
The existing street network and traffic arrangements will remain largely unchanged. A general plan has been prepared for a new bridge on the Hansasilta corridor between Stoanaukio and Tallinnanaukio. The bridge will likely be covered. Turunlinnantie and the new bridge are dimensioned to allow for future tram development.
The Puotila metro station area will be developed into a residential neighbourhood for around 1,100 people. Existing surface car parks will be replaced with apartment buildings. A detailed plan for this area was published in late 2024.
Public feedback has influenced both plans. The city has made adjustments to balance housing types, with at least half of the new gross floor area designated for owner-occupied housing. Around 1,200 residents are expected to move into the Stoa and Puhos area and about 1,100 into the Puotila station development.
The Helminauhakortteli and Puotila developments are led by the Itis Siti consortium, which won the 2020 concept competition. Puotinharjun Puhos Oy is responsible for the redevelopment of Puhos.
The city of Helsinki is also investing in surrounding infrastructure. In addition to the zoning changes, further improvements are planned. These include renovations to the Itäkeskus swimming hall and Itäkeskus comprehensive school. Additional zoning plans for nearby areas are also underway.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
