Tampere rejects citizens' call for independent probe into Särkänsilta bridge

Two of the three heritage steamships that once moored at Mustanlahti have left the harbour, their captain says.

Tampere city will not commission an independent investigation into the planning, decision-making and costs of the controversial Särkänsilta bridge, despite a citizens' initiative signed by 523 people last autumn, YLE reported.

An internal audit based on documents and interviews concluded there were no new or material facts warranting a fresh review. The report noted that the Hämeenlinna Administrative Court had already examined related issues. The city's stance follows the court's recent ruling that overturned a nearly €26 million Särkänniemi investment decision.

Mikko Manka, who led the citizens' initiative and captains the heritage steamship Näsijärvi II, said he is disappointed. He called the audit's suggestion of future cooperation with Särkänniemi and heritage vessels ironic now that several ships have left Mustanlahti.

Critics question the bridge's original purpose. Planners argued it would bring tourists directly to Särkänniemi's new main gate, but the theme park later abandoned that entrance and the bridge now connects to a secondary gate.

Särkänsilta opened during Midsummer week when the sculptural bridge was unveiled. Debate over the area continues as the city pursues larger Särkänniemi development projects amid concerns about possible prohibited EU state aid.