Joint structural plan for Sävast–Sunderbyn

The Municipal Executive Committee of Boden Municipality has adopted the structural plan developed for the Sävast–Sunderbyn area in close cooperation between Boden and Luleå municipalities. The plan has also been politically adopted in Luleå. A structural plan provides an overall, guiding framework for more detailed planning and highlights the development potential of an area.

The Sävast–Sunderbyn Structural Plan has been developed during a period of intense social and economic transformation, driven by major industrial investments in the green transition. These investments are expected to create thousands of new jobs, which in turn calls for strategic coordination between Boden and Luleå. The plan is intended as a knowledge base, focusing on balancing development needs with the preservation of local values and resources.

“It’s an important signal from both municipalities that we’re doing this together — and above all, that we’re maintaining close dialogue during this period of rapid growth,” says Magnus Åkerlund, Chief Executive of Boden Municipality.

The work on the structural plan has taken place in close collaboration between the two municipalities, with participation from regional stakeholders, landowners, and authorities.

“Several joint workshops were held during the process, involving staff from departments such as community development. We also arranged dialogue meetings with residents in Sävast and Sunderbyn,” says Gustav Hamlund, Community Development Strategist at Boden Municipality.

Focus Areas of the Plan

The plan highlights several strategic priorities, including:

• Water and sewage systems (VA): Expanded water and wastewater infrastructure is needed to meet population growth.
• Public transport: Enhanced rail and bus connections between Boden and Luleå are seen as key to improving accessibility.
• Bridge connection: A new bridge across the Lule River is expected to strengthen regional cohesion and create better conditions for housing and business development on both sides of the river.

The plan will serve as a foundation for continued planning and deeper dialogue between Boden and Luleå. More detailed planning is needed, along with ongoing coordination between the two municipalities and dialogue with regional stakeholders and national authorities.