Skellefteå Awarded City Centre of the Year 2026

Skellefteå has been awarded the title City Centre of the Year 2026 – a recognition of long-term and purposeful work where collaboration is at the heart of everything. Through close cooperation between businesses, the municipality and other stakeholders, the city centre is being developed into a vibrant, attractive and sustainable place all year round. The award is presented by Svenska Stadskärnor and will be received at the annual conference in Halmstad on May 21.

The Jury’s Motivation from Svenska Stadskärnor

At a time of both rapid growth and major challenges, this city centre demonstrates an outstanding ability to stay the course and keep moving forward. Through bold investments, clear political leadership and a deeply rooted culture of collaboration, a resilient city centre has been shaped.

With an inclusive vision of the city centre as a shared living room, a place is created that is vibrant and attractive all year round. Internationally acclaimed architecture and culture coexist here with retail, restaurants and experiences. Innovative events and a strong sense of place contribute to a city centre that engages, surprises and brings people together.

An unwavering belief in the future, impressive determination and genuine pride continue to drive development forward – even in challenging times. Together, they create something greater than the sum of its parts, with the innovative collaboration fund serving as a shining example. Skellefteå – you are a source of inspiration for the entire country, and for this reason Skellefteå is awarded the title City Centre of the Year 2026!