Interaction planning drew in those silent groups that do not usually take part in urban planning, such as children, young people, immigrants and the elderly.

The Living City project is part of EU Urban II Community Initiative Programme. In Finland, the Government allotted Urban II Programme to the Greater Metropolitan Area, especially for developing its eastern parts, Helsinki-Vantaa.

In 2002-2004 the City of Vantaa parks unit project involved local residents in improving the public outdoor areas and parks of the Hakunila and Länsimäki districts. The project charted the environmental views of residents with the aid of e.g. questionnaires, interviews, walks round and community theatre. Information from the surveys was made use of in selecting planning areas and drawing up plans.

The project conducted different surveys and drew up park, public square, children's playground and outdoor recreation route plans, some of which have already been realized. Others will be realized over the next few years. Places of cultural historical value were also surveyed, and their archaeological worth inventoried. Inhabitants' participation.

Local inhabitants by means of better city planning.

Total budget € 395 000, three full-time workers, two part-time workers, office facilities.

Skills needed are city planning and social sciences expertise.

City of Vantaa
Finland
http://www.vantaa.fi/
Ms. Aino Leino, tel. +358 9 22654

01/01/2002

case

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Community development

Citizens' participation