The City Council also confirmed, among other things, the progress of projects developing Turku Science Park at Kupittaa and the zoning of new small houses next to the Pitkäsalmi boat harbor in Hirvensalo.
Turku’s economy remains in deficit, but outlook better than expected
According to the second interim report of the year, the City of Turku’s financial situation is better than planned. The deficit for the financial year is now forecast at 11.6 million euros, compared with the 17.7 million euros deficit anticipated in the budget.
This positive development is mainly due to an increase in operating revenues. However, tax revenue accrual is lower than expected, and combined operating revenues and tax funding still do not cover all operating expenses.
Although Turku’s overall economic situation is more stable than initially estimated, challenges remain in balancing operating costs.
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Turku has Finland’s lowest per capita emissions - biggest challenges in traffic and consumption
According to the 2024 Climate Report, Turku’s climate goals progressed as planned last year, and total emissions in the Turku region were reduced by 69% compared with 1990 levels.
The report shows that, on a per capita basis, Turku’s emissions are clearly the lowest among Finland’s largest cities. Road traffic was the largest source of emissions in Turku. However, the city’s measures to strengthen sustainable mobility have advanced, and Turku and its surroundings offer relatively good opportunities for sustainable transport.
Partnership project developing Turku Science Park at Kupittaa progressing
The City Council approved the infrastructure project plan for Kupittaa, the first-phase local detailed plan, and the preliminary property transaction agreement. The goal is to begin construction in early 2026.
The infrastructure project is a key part of the Kupittaa partnership development and the broader Turku Science Park entity. The project and the zoning amendment support the rapid implementation and development of the area in line with the Science Park vision.
As a result, the area will see the development of high-quality, responsibly implemented transport connections, urban spaces, and a parking facility serving the district.
Kupittaa’s zoning will be carried out in two phases. The target is for the first-phase zoning plan to become legally binding by November 2025. Work on the second-phase plan is expected to start during 2025.
The preliminary property transaction agreement between the City of Turku and YIT Construction Ltd is based on the Kupittaa partnership alliance agreement. The agreement sets out the timeline and phasing of the area’s construction.
New small-house housing in Moikoinen, Hirvensalo
The city-owned 1.7-hectare area located next to the Pitkäsalmi boat harbor on Pitkäsalmenkatu will be zoned for small-house housing in company form. The area can provide housing for approximately 80 residents.
The aim of the Pitkäsalmenkatu zoning amendment is to diversify housing opportunities and increase the supply of small-house plots in Turku.