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Slussen, Stockholm
 

Slussen (transl. The Sluice) is an area in Stockholm, Sweden, located at the northern edge of Södermalm, adjacent to Gamla Stan (Old City). It is known for its locks system between Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea, as well as its historic role as a major transport interchange. The Slussen area includes the Slussen metro station and Saltsjöbanan (Saltsjö railway) terminus, a bus terminal, and a ferry terminal. The first lock at Slussen, known as Queen Christina's Lock, was inaugurated in 1642, later replaced by other locks and covered by a railway bridge leading to Stockholm Central railway station. A new major lock, Karl Johan's Lock, was inaugurated in 1935 as part of the modernisation of the area together with the traffic interchange Slussen. The 1935-traffic interchange was a pioneering example of functionalist urban planning. The structure was hailed as a modern solution to traffic and pedestrian congestion. The interchange became a symbol of Stockholm's modernity in the mid-20th century, but structural issues began emerging as early as the 1940s due to salt corrosion and other damage. Also the innovative "cloverleaf" design proved problematic as traffic volumes increased, leading to congestion and safety concerns.  In the early 2000s, the deteriorating state of the 1935 interchange prompted the decision to rebuild the area entirely. Construction began in 2016, with completion scheduled for 2027. The project is to rebuild water regulation infrastructure, while modernising Slussen as a mixed-use public space with improvised public transport. The redevelopment project has faced criticism and public debate. Some have opposed the loss of the historic 1935 structure, while others support the need for modernisation. The new design includes parks, plazas, and waterfront promenades, aiming to revitalise the area.  Slussen metro station lies in the southwest, under Ryssgården. The Saltsjöbanan railway terminus is closed during the works, with Henriksdal station serving as the interim terminus. The Djurgården ferry has moved its departure point further north but retains the name Slussen. The new water facilities include two discharge channels and the newly named Victoria Slussen. These are surrounded by four low bridges and form a heart.

January 10th 2025

 

 
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