While regional centers are becoming stronger, regional areas are struggling to weaken. Increasing their attractiveness is a key issue for improving demographic development – ​​and developing their retention power is even more important.

– Regional and demographic development is a significant concern throughout Satakunta. If we are not attractive enough to people who are thinking about settling down, we are in trouble, says a migration expert Timo Aro At the North Satakunta Regional Forum in Kankaanpää.

Northern Satakunta is suffering from both a low birth rate and higher mortality rate, as well as slightly unbalanced migration. The migration loss largely consists of young people aged 15–24 leaving for studies.

– This is an age group that should go out into the world to develop their skills. However, it is important to think about how we can get them to come back, the Director of Economic Development of the City of Kankaanpää Marko Rajamäki says.

A smooth and functional everyday life makes you stay

We must focus on developing the region's staying power. Investing in this creates the foundation for increasing its attractiveness. The region needs to have a discussion about what makes people stay and enjoy the region.

– Retention means a smooth and happy everyday life. Residents must be given opportunities to interact and participate. We must ask and listen: how satisfied are they with the services and their own living environment? What is everyday life like here, why is it worth staying? Aro lists.

The diverse business base, which is among the top in Finland, is one of North Satakunta's regional trump cards.

– According to a retention study commissioned by the City of Kankaanpää, almost 90 percent of companies operating in Kankaanpää recommend the city as a location for their business. Entrepreneurial friendliness, cooperation between companies, and good housing opportunities were seen as our strengths, says Rajamäki.

 

For more information:

Marko Rajamäki, Director of Economic Affairs, City of Kankaanpää

040 717 7578, [email protected]