Entrepreneur running a kitchen shop in Helsinki since 2005. Background as a researcher. Born in Sweden, has worked as an archaeologist in Greece, Italy and the Middle East.
Helsinki is a good city, but I would like to see more common sense in urban planning and more consideration for those of us who live here. The city is developing, but it must be pleasant to live in here and now - not just in the future after the next large project is completed.
In practise:
· Despite criticism, the old market hall was closed for renovation and the entrepreneurs were evicted. It and the Market square are now tourist traps. They can both become marketplaces for Helsinki residents again.
· Kasarmintori should be restored to its original proportions when the supermarket is demolished. More office buildings are not needed. The square could have cafés and restaurants in summer, snow storage and a sledging hill in winter.
· Kirurgi and Lapinlahti hospitals should be preserved and utilised for care and/or sheltered housing.
· Stop further megalomaniac projects like the “Crown bridges”. They are wasteful and destroy the marine environment.
· Free parking outside shops for 15 minutes would make life easier for customers and business owners.
· An affordable one-zone ticket on public transport should be introduced urgently - not just in the city centre but in every zone.
· Follow Paris and Copenhagen and stop the rental of electric scooters. They cause accidents and are a scourge for the visually impaired. They also make people exercise less.
· Smaller groups in daycare centres and schools.
· It is wrong to close small, easily accessible health centres.
· The city should be truly bilingual. Both Helsingfors and Helsinki must be part of the city's branding - also internationally.
Get in touch! jonas@eiring.fi