Tampere's Särkänsilta bridge divides listeners: 'ugly monstrosity' or 'magnificent'?

Listeners to the Aamupodi podcast have weighed in strongly: one called the structure "a really ugly monstrosity", while another hailed it as "a magnificent and beautiful bridge" and praised the designers. Reactions were stark.

The discussion follows earlier coverage when the sculptural bridge first opened and the city's later refusal to commission an independent probe into the project in August. It also addresses the city's decision to raise parking and public transport fares. The hosts preview Tampere's autumn cultural programme, from events at Nokia Arena and seasons at the major theatres to new museum exhibitions and the reopening of Tullikamari after renovation.

Journalist Ilari Leppäniemi leads the discussion, joined by live producer Enni Mansikkamäki and live and video chief Tuukka Välimäki. Aamupodi appears every Friday in the Aamulehti app and on Supla, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.