MDI examines the Tampere-Seinäjoki-Vaasa-Umeå growth corridor

In the development of growth corridors, it is essential to find a common strategic vision beyond the administrative boundaries in order to avoid partial optimization. The study focuses on linking the Western Finland provinces of Central Ostrobothnia, Ostrobothnia and Southern Ostrobothnia to the main growth corridor of Finland running from Tampere to Helsinki, and on international level connection to Umeå and further to Mo i Rana in Norway. The study will summarise the current state of development of the research area and the needs for development. Two case studies are carried out: A) Identify hinterland second level nodes connections north of Tampere; and B) Passenger traffic from roads to rail and ferry in Tampere-Seinäjoki-Vaasa-Umeå growth corridor. The project provides a common cross-border regional development plan for policy-makers, which sets out recommendations for the development of passenger and cargo traffic along the growth corridor aiming to strengthen business co-operation, natural and cultural heritage and good East-West transport connections. The work will be carried out under the umbrella of the North Sea Baltic Sea Transport and Growth Corridor project (NSB Core), which aims to develop the infrastructure, transport and land use of the North Sea Baltic TEN-T corridor for sustainable and accessible freight and passenger transport. The job is subscribed by the Kvarken Council, and will be completed in early 2018.