Rethinking Urban Connectivity - a Case of Skellefteå, Sweden

Abstract: This project aims to explore alternative ways of promoting urban connectivity in Skellefteå, a northern Swedish city in the sub-arctic region. Skellefteå was initially known for its mining history, rich natural resources including wood, wind, and hydropower. An economic transition began in the 1990s when digital and electronic industries started to grow. In 2019, Northvolt decided to build its battery plant in Skellefteå, which is going to impact the city dramatically.Skellefteå is on its way to become an innovative and technology-oriented economy, but there are underlying challenges due to its location, climate, and population. This project argues that one prominent factor is the lack of connectivity both within the city itself and to the outside world, and that the traditional ways of promoting physical connectivity may not be viable in the sub-arctic context. As a resolution three non-physical layers are proposed as alternative means to strengthen social, economic, and ecological connectivity:FOOD: a number of food hubs and connecting networks provide spaces for co-presence and participative food production, activating public life.KNOWLEDGE: existing schools and offices are opened up and reprogramed for the public, encourage the exchange of information and opinions.WASTE & ENERGY: ecological assets will be tightly integrated through the circulation of waste and energy.