Political Discussion Intensifies Over Proposed Hjorthagen Detention Center

In a significant development regarding local governance, the city planning committee of Stockholm has opened the door for a proposed detention center in Hjorthagen, following a mixed initial response from city officials. The proposal by Vasakronan aims to construct a detention center and police administrative facilities on the site Starkströmmen 4, justifying the initiative with the pressing need for such facilities in accessible yet secluded locations, as stated by the company.

Initially, city officials from the building permit department had recommended against the proposal, citing that it contradicted the existing detailed urban plan. However, politicians within the planning committee have now chosen to consult local residents to gather their opinions, as stated by Stadsbyggnadsborgarrådet Jan Valeskog (S). This community consultation aims to inform a final decision.

Opposition councilor Andrea Hedin (M) underscored the urgent necessity for additional detention spaces while advocating for a comprehensive risk and impact analysis to evaluate the site’s appropriateness. Hedin also expressed interest in the potential for the building to include a staffed police station, which further complicates the decision-making process.