5 QUESTIONS ABOUT THE RIVERCITY TO JOAKIM KENNDAL - STENA LINE

1. Why do you think that there is an international workshop on the future development of Gothenburg harbour next week?

‘The politicians and the inhabitants feel that there are some limitations to the city development, and due to that an uncertainty of what to do. We need some influences from outside.’

2. Do you feel like you are a part of Gothenburg harbour? If yes or no, then why?

‘Definitely! We are a part of Gothenburg harbour since 1967 and have always been a part of the harbour development. People living in Gothenburg say that ferries are part of a living city and a living harbour.’

‘The city was developed around the harbour and has a very long tradition of bringing boats to the city centre, which we still are guarantied for right now.’

3. Could you point out 3 recent initiatives that have been good for the harbour?

‘I think the development of the areas around Göta Älvsbron and the Opera House, around the Lipstick and Gullbergsvass, as well as the development of Lindholmen Science Centre.’

4. Could you point out 3 initiatives that would make you use the harbour more?

‘We need better infrastructure around the harbours. Stena Line brings a lot of people to the city and it’s still complicated to get into the city centre, which is probably the main reason that they are traveling with us.’

‘Gothenburg should develop the areas between the Opera House and the Stena quays, giving people access to the water.’

5. What if Gothenburg city was to start all over, where should it start, what is the essential learning from the past?

‘Gothenburg should focus and have a priority on certain areas on certain times, thus with a long term vision at mind.’

‘Start on certain places that are easy to develop - there are huge possibilities on the areas of Gullbergsvass and that of Frihamnen - and then move over to Södra Älvstranden. Each area will probably take around 5-10 years.’

Additional question:

What should foster the economic growth for Gothenburg in the future?

‘There is a bubbling scene of young entrepreneurship when it comes to fashion; small fashion companies are really creative and upcoming. Secondly it’s probably tourism that we should be able to build on.’


Joakim Kenndal is Head of Information at Stena Line Ferries.