Common principles for land use along the banks of the Kerava River

Joint land use principles were drawn up for the banks of the main channel of the Vantaa River at the end of the 1990s as part of a comprehensive development programme for the Vantaa River. The work was carried out in cooperation with the Uusimaa Regional Council, local municipalities and various authorities.

In order to draw up common principles, the characteristics of the banks of the main channel of the Vantaa River and the riverbanks in land use planning were examined, and the natural and cultural-geographical starting points of the banks in terms of land use were outlined. As a result of this work, common voluntary land use principles were presented:

• landscape perspectives,
• increasing the number of protected areas,
• developing the river as an ecological corridor,
• steering construction away from the vicinity of the river and
• reserving beaches for recreational use.

The aim was to ensure that common principles would safeguard the conditions of the river and its banks and that these would be developed for recreational use. The review did not cover the tributaries of the Vantaa River, such as the Kerava River. The principles established for the Vantaa River are sound, but they certainly need to be updated 30 years later.

Why are common principles needed for the Kerava River?

Land use along the banks of the Kerava River is being intensified, and the riverbank zone is under threat. When planning changes to land use in riverbank areas, designers must reconcile construction objectives with cultural, historical, landscape and natural values. The change is particularly threatening in sensitive riverside areas, where the river has created and shaped natural values. In addition, the Keravan River must be taken into account in planning due to its susceptibility to flooding.

When implementing mode planning that combines and coordinates different values, common land use planning principles are needed. It is justified to draw up common land use principles for the banks of the Kerava River that also take into account tributaries and streams.

In order to achieve this goal, a common vision must be found to safeguard the Kerava River in the face of pressures for change. We need to understand how things and areas are connected. The Keravanjoki kuntoon! (Fix the Keravan River!) project highlights key issues related to the aquatic environment and influences actors in the area.

The project also challenges decision-makers to speak up and take action on behalf of the Kerava River. Good land use planning requires resources, involves value judgements and has a long-term impact, which often means almost permanent change in natural environments.

The original project announcement (Keravanjokiviesti 1/2026) has been published on the website of the Vantaanjoki and Helsinki Region Water Protection Association.

This content has been translated using AI