Two detailed plans being prepared for Katajanokka
In Katajanokka, two amendments to the local detailed plan will be initiated: one for the eastern part of the South Harbour around Katajanokanlaituri, and the other for the Katajanokka Harbour area.
The aim is to strengthen the maritime character of the city centre, complement the area with construction and create a functionally diverse seaside area and a new boulevard for Katajanokka, which will serve as a natural extension of the pedestrian area of the city centre. The planning is linked to a wider reform of the ports of Helsinki, which will centralise and reorganise operations. The design is also guided by the 2023 planning principles for the eastern part of South Harbour.
Maritime boulevard to connect Katajanokka Harbour to walkable city centre
The intention is to make Katajanokanlaituri into a lush boulevard.The existing area dominated by parking will be transformed into an environment suitable for pedestrians and spending time, and the connection from Kauppatori to Katajanokka Harbour will be improved.
The aim of transport planning in the area is to clarify the routes for the different modes of transport.Vehicle traffic will remain on all streets, but more space will be reserved for pedestrians and a dedicated route allocated to cyclists.
The tram stop network will be upgraded to improve traffic flow, while a new location for the turnaround in front of the terminal will be found.
Permanent marine spa planned for Katajanokka
The marine spa on Katajanokanlaituri is proposed as a permanent part of the area's maritime facilities. Until now, the marine spa has been operating in the area with a temporary permit.
In addition to the spa, the area is planned to include wellness and sports facilities and a new year-round event venue. The design of the spa and events district is being prepared in partnership with the Allas Pool project. The intention is to hold an architectural competition for the design of the new building.
Nordic Urban Oy, the real estate development company coordinating the project, has applied for a continuation and extension of the development reservation granted in 2023. The reservation will be discussed by the Urban Environment Committee on Tuesday 9 June.
Katajanokka Harbour area to be reduced – terminal to be extended
The area used by the Port of Helsinki in Katajanokka will be reduced and port operations will be reorganised. At the same time, the passenger terminal can be extended to provide space for two shipping companies instead of the current one. The red-brick harbour building designed by Gunnar Taucher was converted into a passenger terminal in the 1970s and was last extended in the 2000s.
A new use is being sought for the so-called Viking building, located to the north of the terminal. The building is planned to house restaurants and cultural or commercial premises, for example. The conservation status of the building, which was completed in 1952, will be updated during the planning process.
Area development to be discussed at residents’ event on 17 June
The planning documents are available online at hel.fi/suunnitelmat until 25 June.The residents’ event will take place on 17 June 2026 from 16.30 to 18.00 at the City Hall event square (Pohjoisesplanadi 11–13). In addition to City planners, representatives of the Allas Pool project and the Port of Helsinki will be present.
The plan proposals will be made available for feedback at a later stage. The availability of the plan proposals will be notified separately. The reviewed plan proposals will most likely be discussed by the Urban Environment Committee in late 2027.
- Planning material for the eastern part of the South Harbour in the map service (Link leads to external service)
- Katajanokka Harbour planning materials in the map service(Link leads to external service)
- Residents’ event 17 June 2026 from 16.30 to 18.00 at the City Hall event square (Link leads to external service)
- South Harbour project page (in Finnish)