Finnish Heritage Agency recognizes Lapland Regional Government buildings as nationally significant

The Finnish Heritage Agency has revised its stance on the historical buildings and grounds of the Lapland Regional Government. The state is selling the area after relocating its offices from these buildings, with plans for construction of apartment buildings and even a hotel having been discussed over the years.

In a statement issued on October 11, the agency classified the buildings and grounds of the Lapland Regional Government as nationally significant. Following this, the Lapland ELY Centre will make decisions regarding the protection of the area and its level of protection. “We will heavily rely on the Heritage Agency’s opinion in our decision-making process,” said Jussa Liikkanen, chief inspector at the ELY Centre. While protection would not prevent the sale of the land, it could limit or prohibit construction activities.

The area is owned by the state enterprise Senate Properties, which aims to sell it as a whole or in parts. Antti-Ville Haapanen, head of property development at the Senate, expressed hesitancy in assessing how the protection would impact the sale, noting that restrictions or prohibitions on new construction would reduce the area’s financial value.

Previously, the Heritage Agency deemed only the main building of the Lapland Regional Government as nationally significant. However, following an on-site inspection within the government block, a change in assessment was made, highlighting the area’s rarity, historical significance, and representation. Much of the infrastructure dates from shortly after World War II, following the town’s near-total destruction during the Lapland War.

Discussions surrounding zoning changes have stalled, with a protection decision expected later this year. Senate Properties plans to sell the site under current zoning while discussions continue with potential buyers.