Vanhankaupunginlahti, Laajalahti. 28/05/74; Southern Finland; 508 ha; 60°12'N 024°54'E. Natura 2000 SPA, SCI, WHCP. Two separate bay areas in metropolitan surroundings of Helsinki and Espoo forming a wetland complex comprising shallow estuarine waters with marshlands and small ponds. Vegetation includes growths of Common Reed, coastal meadows, submerged vegetation and a few forested swamps. The site represents an important staging area during migration periods for ducks and waders. The main adverse factors are heavy pressure for building along the margins and wastewater discharge. Expansion of a ring road beside Laajalahti increases noise pollution and reduces meadows and forests in western parts. One third of the reed area and Black Alder swamps has been destroyed by land filling in Laajalahti since the 1950s. Management plans were established to stop the eutrophication process, and planning of restoration, research and education was carried out under an EU Life project in 1997-2001. Both areas are of great importance for outdoor recreation and birdwatching, and a nature information centre, several birdwatching towers, nature trails and a hide have been constructed. Ramsar site no. 9. Most recent RIS information: 2005.