The SPICE project was unveiled to the public for the first time in Rovaniemi on Monday, 30 March 2026, at the “Local Dissemination Event.” The event drew an audience of 33 people who came to learn about the project and share their initial thoughts on it.
The event was attended by representatives from the City of Rovaniemi and various associations: the residents’ associations of the 3rd district and the city center, Valoasema ry, Rovaniemen Elämä kaupunkiseura ry, and Rovaniemen yrittäjät ry, Piste Kollektiivi, and the project’s main partner, Rovaseudun Markkinakiinteistöt.
The event was held at the bus station, a central location for the project. The project focuses on designing a vibrant and dynamic urban area that serves diverse groups of people. The planning area covers the route from the train station through the bus station to the downtown pedestrian street (Koskikatu).
The project received positive feedback. It was viewed as an interesting initiative that offers an opportunity for a collaborative planning process and the development of participation, also with a view to the future. The concerns were also similar across different participant groups: that SPICE would not remain merely a plan but would produce real changes and visible operating models. Participants also pondered how much genuine room for influence actually exists, given existing plans and decisions.
According to a survey conducted at the event, the digital engagement tools being developed as part of the project received a positive response. The co-creation platform and the 3D editor received the most enthusiastic response.
The event provided valuable insights into key areas for future work. The project will continue in the planning and preparation phase throughout the spring and will begin to take shape during the winter of 2026 – 2027. For more information, please visit Arctic Factory’s website or contact project leader Samuel Ahola.
