Developing good and attractive city centers is an important tool towards sustainable development. This year's finalists understand perfectly well that the proper location of the function in combination with holistic land development and good meeting places create urban values. Finalists stand out in their own way by actively working for social sustainability, the participation and commitment of those who live there. In their own way, they have created attractive and effective meeting places - something that contributes to city life and integration.

The winner of the three was Sandnes

In April, the jury selected Harstad, Bryne and Sandnes as finalists of the Attractive City 2022 competition. The winner of the three was Sandnes.

-  Sandnes impressed jurors with the long-term and knowledge-driven development of the city center, which is now showing good results. New city center features, cultural initiatives, new neighborhoods in the derelict port areas and Ruten. This makes it one of the best new urban spaces in Norway. Sandnes is successful in its urban development work, says Alexandria Algard, chairwoman of the jury of the Attractive City competition.

The city of Sandes has done a great job

The jury wrote in its assumption that the industrial city of Sandnes entered the oil age with large population growth over many years. The development of the commune's housing estate was largely car-driven. This led to an uncontrolled expansion of the city while the development of the city center stagnated. In recent years, Sandnes has taken several steps that have helped reverse development and create an attractive center that creates identity and fuels the city's growth.

- Sandes has done a great job of creating a vibrant and attractive center. Undoubtedly, the other two finalists, Harstad and Bryne, deserve praise as well. I'm looking forward to the award ceremony, says Sigbjørn County and Local Government Minister Gjelsvik.