Kirkkonummi is one of the growing municipalities in Uusimaa, and its appeal is based on its proximity to nature, excellent transportation connections, and diverse housing options. As the municipality develops, it is crucial to ensure that growth happens in a controlled and sustainable manner—so that residents continue to receive high-quality services, the environment remains pleasant, and housing remains attractive for people in different life stages.
How can we ensure that Kirkkonummi’s growth is sustainable? Here are three key goals:
1. Sufficient and Diverse Housing Development
Housing production must meet the needs of both current and new residents. It is important for Kirkkonummi to offer homes suitable for different life stages so that young adults, families, and retirees can all find housing that suits them.
Key Actions:
- 🏡 Diverse Housing Options – A mix of apartment buildings, row houses, and detached houses is needed across different areas of the municipality. Zoning and construction should support low-density housing, which is one of Kirkkonummi’s strengths.
- 📍 Good Locations and Transportation Connections – New residential areas should be located with easy access to public transport and close to key employment areas, such as Espoo and Helsinki.
- 🏢 Integrating Housing with Services – The development of town centers should combine housing, workplaces, and services to ensure a seamless and efficient everyday life.
- 👨👩👧👦 Affordable Housing Options – Housing policies should also include affordable options, making Kirkkonummi an attractive place for residents across different income levels.
2. Development of Local Services
As the population grows, so does the demand for services. Schools, daycare centers, healthcare services, and recreational facilities must be expanded to keep up with growth. If services do not keep pace, congestion and a declining quality of life can reduce Kirkkonummi’s attractiveness.
What Can Be Done?
- 🏫 Building New Schools and Daycare Centers – Ensuring that families have access to high-quality education services is essential. Expanding Gesterby’s school center and launching new school projects can support this goal.
- 🏥 Improving Access to Healthcare Services – With a growing population, there is a need for more doctors, maternity and child health clinics, and other social and healthcare services. Utilizing digital solutions and flexible appointment models can improve service availability.
- 🏛 Strengthening Local Services and Shopping Centers – New residential areas should have grocery stores, restaurants, and essential services nearby so that residents do not have to travel far for daily errands.
- 🎭 Expanding Leisure and Recreational Opportunities – Youth centers, sports facilities, and cultural services enhance the quality of life in Kirkkonummi. Investments in a swimming hall, sports fields, and event culture will support residents’ well-being.
3. A Pleasant Environment and Preservation of Green Spaces
Urban growth does not mean that we should sacrifice green spaces—on the contrary. One of Kirkkonummi’s greatest strengths is its natural surroundings, and they must be preserved for future generations.
Key Actions:
- 🌳 Protecting Green Spaces and Recreational Areas – Every residential area should have parks, jogging trails, and green spaces. These not only enhance quality of life but also support physical and mental well-being.
- 🚶♂️ Promoting Pedestrian and Bicycle Infrastructure – Safe and well-planned walking and cycling routes make everyday travel easier and reduce the need for cars. Encouraging active lifestyles contributes to both health and sustainability.
- 🏞 Environmental Protection and Sustainable Construction – New construction projects should be designed with ecological sustainability in mind, utilizing green building techniques and energy-efficient solutions.
Sustainable Growth Will Make Kirkkonummi Even More Attractive
Well-managed population growth is an opportunity, not a threat. By ensuring diverse housing options, expanding services, and preserving a high-quality living environment, Kirkkonummi can grow in a balanced way and remain attractive to both new and existing residents.
This requires proactive planning, close cooperation, and bold decision-making—but the result will be a municipality where people feel at home and want to stay for the long term.
💡 What are your thoughts on sustainable growth in Kirkkonummi? Leave a comment and let’s continue the discussion!