Plans to close Oulu’s historic Raatti swimming hall face opposition with over 7,000 signatures

A petition against the planned closure of Raatti swimming hall in Oulu has gathered over 7,000 signatures, as residents protest the city’s decision to shut down the facility in the 2030s to cut costs and redirect resources to a new aquatic sports centre in Raksila.

The city of Oulu intends to repurpose Raatti’s pool areas into indoor sports facilities, citing financial savings of €670,000 annually. However, opponents argue the closure would disproportionately affect seniors, for whom the centrally located hall is a vital and accessible exercise venue.

“The shock was immense when we read about the plans in the service network review,” said Anne Vuopohja, one of the petition’s initiators. “Decision-makers must consider the sheer number of signatures.” She highlighted Raatti’s popularity among older residents, noting its convenient bus connections and suitability for water-based exercise, a low-impact activity ideal for many.

Oulu’s sports facility manager, Jari Leviäkangas, acknowledged the hall’s aging infrastructure, including persistent water leakage damaging the structure. A full renovation, estimated at €14.7 million, would be required to keep it operational. The last major upgrade in 2010 was a repair rather than a rebuild, he noted, and ongoing maintenance already costs tens of thousands annually.

The new Raksila aquatic centre, set for completion in 2029 at a cost of €80 million, will become one of Finland’s largest. Leviäkangas declined to speculate on Raatti’s fate, stating that municipal leaders will make the final decision in due course.

Raatti swimming hall, featuring two large pools, two children’s pools, and sauna facilities, has served as a community hub since its last renovation. Supporters, including Vuopohja, point to Helsinki’s recently restored Yrjönkatu swimming hall—a €21 million project—as proof that heritage pools can be preserved with investment.