In 2025, the City of Helsinki organised a concept competition for the development of Haltiala farm, the domestic animal farm located in northern Helsinki that is currently owned by the City. The aim of the competition was to find a new owner for the buildings who would take over the operation of the farm and develop its existing services.
The City received three proposals in the competition, of which Lännentila Oy's proposal entitled ‘Haltiala elämyksien maatila’ (‘Haltiala Farm of Experiences’) was found to best meet the objectives of the competition. The proposal is also most in line with the wishes expressed by local residents for the development of the area during the competition. Local residents' opinions were collected through an online survey.
Domestic animal farm to remain unchanged
Lännentila’s plan will preserve the existing rural feel of the area, with activities designed to fit in with the spirit and history of the area. The proposal takes into account the cultural values of Haltiala and allows for a quick start-up.
“Lännentila’s competition proposal seeks to maintain the authenticity of the farm and keep the operating environment largely unchanged. The new services will be built around an event and local food market, a domestic animal yard, the manor milieu, farm activities and accommodation,” says Project Manager Anu Hämäläinen from the City of Helsinki.
Lännentila’s competition team has previous experience in running a similar farm, animal care and cultural environment restoration projects. Lännentila operates a farm in Lumijoki, near Oulu, with free access to its animal yard. Strawberries and other seasonal products are grown on the farm. In the summer, the farm offers lots of activities for the whole family, such as farm animals, farm-themed activities, and a diverse selection of food.
Domestic animal yard to remain free of charge
Visits to Haltiala farm’s domestic animal yard, a popular destination for families with children, will continue to be free of charge. The existing animals on the farm will be transferred to the new operator. Lännentila also plans to introduce a new animal species to the farm in the summers in the form of alpacas.
Lännentila has planned the operation of the farm with families with children and outdoor enthusiasts in mind. In addition to saunas, farm accommodation and a flatbread pizzeria, the plans include opening an activity park and a ski café, among other things. The ski café would be located in Niskala, next to the Paloheinä field ski track.
Winner of the concept competition to be decided by the Urban Environment Committee
The Committee will consider the matter at its meeting on Tuesday 3 February. If the Committee approves the proposal, the 31 buildings/structures of Haltiala domestic animal farm will be sold to the new operator. The new operator will sign a land lease agreement with the City for the areas. The ground rent will be approximately EUR 21,000 per year.
The sale price of the buildings is EUR 200,000. In addition to the sale price, the buyer will also agree to build a new manure storage building for the domestic animal farm.
