The planning principles of the environment of Länsiväylä propose an extension of the city centre and a tunnel in Lauttasaari

The local master plan of the environment of Länsiväylä concerns Länsiväylä and the surrounding areas in Koivusaari, Lauttasaari and Salmisaari. The city's specialists have prepared a proposal of planning principles to serve as a basis for the local master plan process. The planning principles are based on the plan's objectives and scenario analyses developed at the inception stage.
Wiew from Salmisaari to Ourit. Photo: Satu Turula
Wiew from Salmisaari to Ourit. Photo: Satu Turula

In Lauttasaari, a tunnel is being proposed for Länsiväylä, which will ensure the smooth flow of port and freight traffic and eliminate noise and other nuisance caused by Länsiväylä. The northern part of Lauttasaari is proposed to be a diverse urban structure with good accessibility to different activities. In Salmisaari, urban development will be adapted to whatever decision is made on the harbour tunnel. An unbroken seaside trail for walking and a main cycling route along Länsibaana are proposed, and a tramway connection will be explored. The area's green and recreational network will be developed.

“There are some conflicting views about the area. The proposed planning principles reconcile these perspectives and, in my opinion, best meet the objectives of the plan, such as expanding the city centre and ensuring the continuity of transport,” comments Pasi Rajala, Head of Master Planning.

The planning principles will be presented to the Urban Environment Committee on Tuesday 18 April 2023.

Map of key design principles (pdf)