Final Seminar Brought Key Insights into Port-City Integration

The Smart Port City project reached its conclusion with a final seminar held on February 12, 2025, at Forum Marinum in Turku. The event gathered experts from academia, city of Turku, and Port of Turku to reflect on the project’s outcomes and discuss future developments in port-city integration.

The seminar was opened by Hanna Mattila, Director of the Turku Urban Research Programme, who highlighted the importance of research-based collaboration in shaping the future of port cities.

Key Topics and Presentations

Professor Magnus Hellström from Åbo Akademi University provided an overview of the Smart Port City project, outlining its key findings and contributions to digitally enhanced port and city operations. His presentation emphasized how smart technologies can foster more efficient and sustainable urban-port interactions.

Architectural visions played a central role in the seminar, with Pekka Mäki, Vice President of Sigge Architects, presenting the winning proposal “Squama” for the upcoming Museum of History and the Future. This innovative design aims to create a dynamic cultural landmark at Turku’s waterfront.

The Linnanniemi master plan was introduced by Arkkitehtitoimisto SHY, showcasing the transition of the waterfront area into a vibrant and multifunctional environment, balancing urban development with heritage and controlled rewilding.

Cato Johansen, Head of Planning at the Port of Oslo, brought an international perspective by discussing port-city synergies and symbiosis. His insights shed light on best practices in sustainable port development, emphasising the role of collaborative planning in achieving environmental and economic goals.

The seminar concluded with remarks from Mervi Lehto, Project Manager at the City of Turku, and head of Smart Port City steering group, reflected on the journey of the Smart Port City project and its contributions to the future of Turku’s waterfront development.

Looking Ahead

As the Smart Port City project wraps up, its findings will continue to inform urban and port development. The discussions held during the seminar underscored the necessity of integrating digital solutions, architectural innovation, and cross-sector collaboration to enhance the sustainability and functionality of port cities.