The plans to make a brand new residential area in the old military area I20 have been around for a long time. But noise from the training field that the Armed Forces has in the area south of the northern link makes it impossible today.

In an investigation that the municipality of Umeå has submitted to the government's special investigators, it is stated that the defense must move.

- It is not possible to build housing as long as the defense has the training ground, says Thomas Lundgren, town planner at Umeå municipality.

"Quite unique"

The Swedish Armed Forces tells SVT that they have contributed with supporting documents to the municipality's investigation but that they do not decide on a possible move. The ball is now with the government.

- We have an investigation that shows that it is possible. Then it's a matter for the ministry and the government, says Thomas Lundgren.

The project would cost between SEK 1.2 and 1.5 billion, money that the municipality would eventually receive again, says Thomas Lundgren.

- Having such a large area so close to the city center, with proximity to green areas, service and workplaces, is quite unique for a city of Umeå size. We hope and believe that the state will seize this opportunity.

The Umeå residents may think so

The municipality has also made a plan proposal that they invited the Umeå residents to like. On Sunday, the time is up for comment, and according to Thomas Lundgren, not many people have been brought in yet.

- There are some people who use the I20 area today, who ski or break the dog, and that is of course the views you always get with such plans. But some also see great potential and welcome more housing.

Hear what reactions the municipality has received about the housing plans on I20 in the clip above!