A Heart on Stora Torget to Thank Borås Residents and Realize the Dream of Borås

As Valentine’s Day approaches, a glowing heart has appeared on Stora Torget (Main Square) in Borås, Sweden. This illuminated installation marks the first step in bringing the “Dream of Borås” project into its next phase – making the vision a reality.

Expressing Gratitude and Love for the City Center

Anna Liljenby, Urban Life Coordinator at Borås TME, explains the significance: “The heart symbolizes a big and warm thank you to all Borås residents who have engaged in the future of the city center by sharing opinions and creative suggestions for how it can be developed. It shows our love for the city center and that we are now starting to realize the visions.”

Community Involvement in Shaping the Future

In January, 80 participants including property owners, politicians, city officials, local businesses, and university representatives took part in a city walk to identify measures needed to create an attractive and vibrant city center. Their input has resulted in new visions for different areas.

Linda Sjöstrand, City Leader of Borås City, shares: “The thoughts and suggestions of Borås residents have resulted in new visions about what the core of the different places is and what the places can become. Stora Torget is a place where Borås residents want to see more life and movement, more events and ‘Instagram-friendly’ installations.”

The Dream of Borås 2.0

The “Dream of Borås” concept was created about 10 years ago to concretize ideas for making the city center more attractive. Now, with significant changes in the world, the visions are being updated. In summer 2023, over 2,200 residents shared their thoughts on the future city life through a survey. This input has led to “Dream of Borås 2.0,” featuring new vision images and texts for nine locations in the city.

Collaborative Effort for Urban Development

The “Dream of Borås” project is driven by Borås City, Borås TME, Borås Municipality, Centrumfastigheter i Borås, and Fastighetsägarna. Its purpose is to create a common strategy for development and establishments in the city center.

The illuminated heart on Stora Torget will remain in place during the early spring, serving as a bright reminder of the community’s shared vision for a vibrant urban future.

For more information, visit Dream of Borås 2.0.

Source: Borås TME Press Release