New owner buys Oulu’s historic former prison

Oulu’s historic former provincial prison has been sold to Y-K Heritage Oy, Yle reports. The new owner is exploring possible uses including offices, cultural activities and accommodation.

The property includes the red-brick prison and its extensions, as well as Oxenstierna House, completed in 1778 as a crown prison. Y-K Heritage Oy is backed by Oulu-based Hongisto Oy, owned by the Yrjö-Koskinen family, and Hämeenlinna-based Y-K Oy Finland. The new company will be called Kiinteistö Oy Oulun Kruununvankila.

Prison use at the property ended in January, when Oulu’s new prison was completed. Managing director Mariia Yrjö-Koskinen said the buildings’ varied spaces and good condition offered an interesting starting point for considering new uses.

The new owner has taken responsibility for the property’s repair and investment needs, as well as liabilities related to the soil. A zoning plan change is under way, and the buyer will be responsible for advancing it with the City of Oulu. Some buildings are marked for protection in the draft plan, which also includes proposed infill construction.

Y-K Oy has previously bought a school building in Oulu that was built in 1906 and most recently housed the Valteri guidance and learning support centre.