Reflections from the reference group on Contemporary Nordic Urban Development

On May 13, the new reference group for the analysis of contemporary Nordic urban development held its first meeting. The focus was on identifying key success factors and obstacles in achieving the desired ambitions and impacts of urban development projects.

Key Takeaways from the First Discussion:

  1. Long-Term Commitment and Financing Are Crucial Projects with a clear, sustainable business model and long-term funding—especially those driven by committed actors like municipal housing companies—tend to have greater impact. Operational projects are often seen as more effective than investment-only initiatives, as they enable continuity and long-term value creation.
  2. Alignment with City Vision and Societal Challenges Enhances Impact The most successful projects address relevant societal issues, align with the municipality’s vision and political agenda, and reinforce the city’s identity. Timing projects to coincide with current debates or legislative changes (“seizing the window of opportunity”) also increases their chances of success.
  3. People and Organizational Coordination Matter Influential individuals can significantly shape project priorities. At the same time, having the right stakeholders, shared ownership, and a unified direction within the organization is essential. A holistic perspective and institutional memory—supported by networks like NCN—strengthen a city’s capacity for development.

Current Members of the Reference Group:

  • Linda Apelgren, Norrköping
  • Josephine Nellerup, Malmö
  • Pernilla Lindström, Västerås
  • Susanne Lykkegaard Rydning, Fredericia
  • Barbara Mikkelsen, Tórshavn
  • Hannah Wadman, AFRY
  • Louise Kielgast, Gehl
  • Cassandra Lundgren, Gehl

The group will meet again on August 26 (10:00–12:00) and September 11 (13:00–14:30).
Interested in joining future meetings? Email: secretariat@nordiccitynetwork.com 

 

Background

Throughout 2025, this reference group—comprising selected NCN members—will deepen the analysis of material collected for NCN’s study on contemporary Nordic urban development. Insights from the group’s discussions will inform NCN’s digital lunch sessions during spring and summer 2025, as well as the upcoming lab in Linköping (October 1–3). The group will meet three times between May and September in digital sessions lasting 1 to 1.5 hours. Each meeting will be based on a specific reflection task shared in advance.

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