The City of Helsinki is set on a path to transform its extensive Central Park into a national urban park, as disclosed in a press release on Thursday.
This initiative aims to preserve and enhance urban nature alongside the built cultural environment, creating cohesive spaces that strengthen the area’s greenways and recreational networks. Spanning roughly 10 kilometers from Töölö in the heart of the city to Haltiala near the border with Vantaa, Central Park boasts a rich tapestry of dense forests, winding paths, and sweeping agricultural views.
This expansive 1,000-hectare area serves as a verdant divide in the city, defining neighborhoods like Oulunkylä, Haaga, Kaarela, Laakso, Ruskeasuo, Tuomarinkylä, Töölö, Pasila, Alppiharju, Kallio, Kluuvi, and Pakila.
Efforts to establish a national park date back to 2017, but the proposal was shelved after a preliminary phase. However, the city has reignited the discussion with the launch of a resident survey aimed at gathering community input on preservation priorities and suggested improvements. This survey will remain open until December 21.
Furthermore, city officials anticipate submitting the application for the national park to the Urban Environment Committee, and subsequently to the City Board, with hopes of moving forward by 2026. The Ministry of the Environment will hold the final say on the approval of the application in accordance with the Land Use and Building Act.
As this vital initiative unfolds, the city seeks to ensure that Helsinki’s rich green spaces are not only preserved but also thrive as integral parts of urban life.