Helsinki City Council on Wednesday approved a city planning proposal allowing for the construction of Finland's first major hybrid urban complex.
Planned to go up in the city's Laajasalo district, the multi-use structure will combine a tram depot with retail shops and residential housing.
The tram depot is to be sited under a massive deck to be built in the area. Seven residential buildings containing a total of almost 700 flats are to be constructed over the deck. There will also be new retail spaces and a car park included.
The massive project may be completed as early as 2026.
Capital housing needs
The complex is part of a project to expand a tram connections from the city centre to the Yliskylä area of Laajasalo.
Laajasalo is one of the fastest expanding residential sections of eastern Helsinki. Current plans call for the construction of new housing for up to 40,000 residents over the next ten years.
The new tram line is aimed at improving public transport in the area.
While more housing is badly needed in Helsinki, the hybrid building project has also aroused strong local opposition. Current residents say it will take over areas now occupied by a sports park and a forested area, close to a popular beach.
Because of the impact on local nature areas, Swedish People's Party representatives opposed project approval in council and proposed a search for alternative sites for the tram depot.
However, the large council's larger party groups, the National Coalition Party and SDP, opposed modifying the plan.
