The Vöyrinkaupunki engineering workshop area, known as Konepaja, is set to be transformed into a space for engaging experiences, living, and working

– We have launched the preliminary development phase of the Konepaja area in collaboration with GSP Group Oy. The aim is to gain a clear understanding of the best way to proceed in the current market situation, so that we can move on to the main development phase with the private market, says Mayor Tomas Häyry.

During the preliminary development phase, a proposal will be prepared outlining the roles of the parties involved in the project company, the schedule for the area’s development and planning phase, the budget, the tasks for the development stage, and matters related to the Act on Public Procurement and taxation.

– The proposal for the way forward will be submitted to the City Board for consideration and then forwarded to the City Council. The goal is to move on to the main development phase and establish the development company already this autumn, Häyry continues.

A hub connecting three districts

The Konepaja area covers approximately 10 hectares, and as a closed Wärtsilä industrial site, it has separated three districts from one another: City Centre, Vöyrinkaupunki and Palosaari.

– In the future, we want to transform the Konepaja area into an appealing and welcoming hub that connects the three districts, offering spaces for living, working, leisure, and memorable experiences. Both the City of Vaasa and Wärtsilä, the landowner, share a strong desire to make the area an attractive destination for businesses, residents, and visitors, Häyry adds.

A new use is being sought for the area’s old factory buildings. Hosting a variety of events in these buildings is also seen as an appealing opportunity.

As the main development phase begins in autumn 2026, residents and stakeholders will be invited to contribute to concept design and to help define the area’s specific functions and services.

– We want to develop the Konepaja area together with residents and stakeholders; only by working together can we achieve the best outcome, Häyry says.

The preliminary development phase is led by Tytti Hast from GSP Group Oy, a company specialising in property development and construction management. GSP Group is independent of construction firms or investors and has extensive expertise in initiating, developing, and managing complex property development projects as well as hybrid ventures.