Concerns grow among residents in Drammen over potential school closures affecting city’s appeal

Anna Swistara, an 18-year-old resident of Drammen since childhood, has voiced concerns regarding potential school closures in the area. She believes the trend of closing schools may influence her future housing decisions, as she plans to seek out neighborhoods with nearby educational facilities if she has children.

Drammen faces financial difficulties due to a declining student population, leading to the possible closure of over 70 schools nationwide. Swistara’s friend, Mena Steingrimsen, also 18, fears that if schools close, it could deter people from wanting to live in Drammen, which would be a significant loss for the city.

Despite these concerns, proximity to schools is not the sole factor influencing the preferences of young residents when choosing where to live. Swistara emphasizes the importance of social opportunities and activities in her area, stating she prefers to live in a vibrant, central location with access to restaurants and shopping.

As funding from the government decreases with fewer students, municipalities like Drammen must implement significant budget cuts—up to 150 million kroner by 2025. A Norstat poll indicates that the majority of Drammen’s residents believe school closures would negatively affect the city’s appeal.

Urban planner Jørgen Kaupang-Marthinsen explains that the availability of jobs is a primary reason people choose to relocate. He notes that while educational establishments like primary schools play a role in local development, their impact varies across different areas.

Steingrimsen and Swistara worry that school closures could drive residents away, making Drammen less desirable. Both believe improved public transport could mitigate some issues, yet they are uncertain if such changes would suffice to retain the area’s population in the long run.