Former nuclear plant worker housing now shelters Lapland’s seasonal workers

Modular buildings originally intended for a Finnish nuclear power plant site are now being repurposed as housing for seasonal workers in Lapland’s tourist hubs, public broadcaster Yle reports.

The first units have been erected in Saariselkä and Ylläs, where seasonal employees—many struggling with acute housing shortages—have welcomed the new accommodations. Despite some local opposition, plans are underway to expand the modular housing to other Lapland destinations.

From nuclear site to seasonal housing The buildings were initially constructed for the Hanhikivi nuclear power plant project in Pyhäjoki, northern Ostrobothnia, but now stand in tourist centres like Saariselkä and Ylläs. Lapland Safaris, a local adventure tourism company, leased one of the modular buildings in Saariselkä, where all 48 rooms were occupied as soon as it opened in November.

Sajuana Gomez, a safari guide from Spain, moved into the building in late December and described her experience as positive. “At first, I wondered how we’d manage, but there have been no problems. People respect each other,” she told Yle. Despite winter conditions, the insulation has held up well, with only minor adjustments needed, such as replacing a few radiators.

Shared living with few complaints The modular units feature shared kitchens, showers, and common areas, resembling hostel-style accommodation. Arttu Haapamäki, a remote worker staying in Ylläs for six weeks, praised the location and clean facilities. “The shared lounge always has company,” he said, though he noted occasional frustration over unwashed dishes in the kitchen.

A resident satisfaction survey in Saariselkä highlighted good soundproofing and community spirit, though some requested softer furnishings to reduce the “clinical” feel. “We’re gradually adding warmth to the space,” said Janne Antola, maintenance manager at Lapland Safaris.

Expansion plans face local resistance Developer Palaja-HVM Housing, a joint venture between Pajala Yhtiöt and HVM Infra, plans to erect 576 additional modular units across Kilpisjärvi, Sodankylä, Kittilä, Pyhätunturi, Ivalo, and Ruka—pending permits. However, not all locations have welcomed the projects. Rovaniemi rejected a zoning exemption for three modular buildings near Santa Claus Village, though the company insists it will find alternative sites.

“It doesn’t mean we’re giving up on Rovaniemi. We’ll just proceed differently,” said Hannes Oksa, a board member of Palaja-HVM Housing.

Antola acknowledged that modular housing can spark local concerns but stressed its role in easing the region’s housing crisis. “This is a significant help,” he said.