Basketball court reopens at North Haaga elementary school in Helsinki

Basketball can once again be played at the North Haaga elementary school in Helsinki. The city had previously decided to restrict basketball activities in North Haaga, Puotila, and Malmi due to noise complaints, which sparked a lively debate on social media and a related opinion piece in Helsingin Sanomat.

Johanna Laisaari, Helsinki’s Assistant Mayor for Education and Training, addressed the situation over the weekend on Facebook. She noted that she received numerous inquiries regarding the city’s decision and indicated her intention to investigate the matter. “We need to support and encourage children and young people in engaging in meaningful leisure activities, and basketball is certainly one of those activities. That’s why we build these courts with public funds,” Laisaari stated.

As of Monday, Yle was unable to confirm whether the city had reopened the basketball hoops at North Haaga elementary or if an individual did so without permission. However, on Monday the hoops were indeed open and the court was available for use.

Local resident Kati Pekonen expressed her delight that the controversy surrounding the issue was taken seriously and that many people voiced support for basketball. Her son, Topi Laine, was thrilled to hear the news about the reopening of the basketball court. “This is just the best!” he exclaimed.