Planning underway for Kauppi–Niihama outdoor recreation services – implementation to begin next year
The area is being planned in close cooperation between different units of the City of Tampere. Development will take place during 2026–2028 in collaboration with a city working group and stakeholders. Preparations for a nature conservation area, new residential developments, public transport connections, and overall accessibility will all be taken into account.
– Kauppi–Niihama has significant natural values and is a popular nearby destination for a variety of outdoor activities. Planning a marked trail network is important for guiding movement, preventing environmental wear, and ensuring different forms of recreation can coexist, says Kaisa Mikkola, Outdoor Recreation Planner at EcoFellows Ltd.
The trail planning is based on participatory planning material compiled in 2019, in which the City of Tampere engaged a wide range of stakeholders and residents. Existing trails will be used as the primary basis for the new routes. Kauppi–Niihama is a major nature hub where recreational pressure is continuously increasing. Petri Mäkelä, Nature Services Manager at EcoFellows, highlights the key considerations and challenges in the planning process:
– There are many different, and sometimes conflicting, needs in the area. This makes it essential to continue examining the overall picture together. All plans and objectives must be aligned in the most functional and sustainable way possible.
The Kauppi–Niihama trails will mainly be developed as shared-use trails, some of which will also be suitable for easy mountain biking. New rest areas have been proposed along the shores of Lake Näsijärvi, at Niihama lodge, and around Lake Alasjärvi. A development budget of 0.75 million euros has been allocated for recreational services in the Kauppi–Niihama area for the next three-year period.
The City of Tampere’s recreational services are guided by the Outdoor Recreation Services Programme 2026–2035. The programme provides the foundation for planning and implementing new destinations as well as maintaining existing ones. The aim is to offer safe, accessible and high-quality recreational services year-round – cost-effectively and close to residents. The Housing and Real Estate Committee approved the programme in 2025.
The Ulkona.Perillä. tour, organised by Suomen Latu and Partioaitta, will arrive at Kaupinoja beach in Tampere on Thursday 11 June 2026 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. At the EcoFellows stand, visitors can contribute to the planning of future trails by sharing their ideas and wishes. Users of the Kauppi–Niihama area will also be engaged through other events and a survey during the year. The Ulkona.Perillä. event offers a low-threshold opportunity to try different nature-based activities. The event is free and open to all.
EcoFellows Ltd is part of the City of Tampere and provides recreational services for the city under a service agreement.
