Center development in the countryside

To reverse the negative population development in the rural areas of Kalix municipality, the Kalix rural council initiated a project that focused on the future of the smaller communities. Many rural areas had long lost both inhabitants and services, making it increasingly difficult to maintain attractiveness. To turn the trend, new tools and a new perspective on development work were needed.

Through the project, five rural plans were created and an additional four plans were initiated. These serve as local guides with concrete proposals on how trade, services, culture, and leisure can strengthen the rural areas. The work was based on close dialogue with local development groups and associations, where questions such as ”What can we do?” and ”How do we move forward?” formed the basis for the process.

The plans are intended to be used continuously, both in local engagement and as support in the municipality's ongoing development work. The Kalix rural council continues to support the rural areas that did not manage to complete their plans and ensures that the work continues.