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Imatra's master plan 2040 creates guidelines for the city's future
The master plan defines the main lines of the city's growth and land use until 2040. It ensures that Imatra develops in a controlled and sustainable manner. The master plan serves as the cornerstone of the city's structure and a guideline for long-term development.
The central task of the new master plan has been to update the old master plan 2020 and take into account the operating environment that has changed in 20 years and its consequences, such as the decline in population and schoolchildren and the need for adaptation, as well as economic realities.
With the exception of Kaukopää School, the Imatra Master Plan 2040 has entered into force on 29 October 2025.
On 1 September 2023, the South-Eastern Finland ELY Centre filed a complaint with the city regarding the protection of Kaukopää School, citing the Building Heritage Act. The City of Imatra believes that Kaukopää School has been sufficiently taken into account in the master plan, even without a protection designation.
— The conservation values and current condition of the building in question should be assessed in more detail in connection with a possible future local plan and not in the master plan, Land Use Manager Erik Forstén says.
The city has filed a response with the Administrative Court of Eastern Finland this week. The city believes that protecting the Kaukopää school is not a culturally sustainable development for the environment and the urban area, or supports the goals of a safe and healthy living environment.
For more information:
Land Use Manager Erik Forstén, erik.forsten
imatra.fi (erik[dot]forsten[at]imatra[dot]fi), tel. 020 617 1050
planning architect Sami Tynkkynen, sami. stumpimatra.fi (sami[dot]tynkkynen[at]imatra[dot]fi), tel. 020 617 1150
What does the master plan mean?
The master plan is not a detailed building plan, but rather creates a framework for urban planning. It tells in which direction the city will be developed:
- Residential areas – where new housing can be located
- Workplace areas – space for businesses and industry
- Green and recreational areas – preserving nature and urban greenery
- Transport network – main routes and connections that support smooth movement
Process and opportunities for influence
The master plan serves as a guideline, but the actual construction and detailed planning takes place during the local planning phase. The local planning phase determines the boundaries of plots, the locations of buildings and more detailed regulations. At this stage, city residents have the opportunity to influence the process – for example, by participating in hearings and providing feedback.
Why is the master plan important?
- It ensures that Imatra grows in a controlled manner and services are located sensibly.
- It supports sustainable development and takes into account the impacts of climate change.
- It creates the conditions for new town plans and regional development.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between a master plan and a city plan?
A master plan is a strategic plan that defines the main lines of a city's development. A local plan, on the other hand, is a detailed plan that specifies what and how will be built in a specific area.
- Can I influence the master plan?
Hearings and comment rounds will be held during the preparation phase of the master plan. Now that the master plan 2040 has been approved, the opportunities to influence the local planning process are focused on.
- How is the urban planning progressing?
The city planning process will be carried out in stages based on the master plan. Each city plan will be announced separately, and city residents will have the opportunity to participate and provide feedback.
- Where can I find maps and documents?
All materials can be found on the city's website, link below.
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