National memorial site commemorating the attack on Utøya on 22 July 2011

The government has decided that a national memorial site will be established at Sørbråten in Hole municipality to commemorate the attack on Utøya on 22 July 2011.

Sørbråten was chosen after considering various alternatives. It is situated close to and has a good view of the island of Utøya. Both the Workers' Youth League (AUF) and the national support group established following the events of 22 July were consulted before a decision was made.

'I am pleased that we have found a nice and worthy location for the national memorial site for the attack on Utøya,' says Minister of Government Administration, Reform and Church Affairs Rigmor Aasrud.

'I am especially grateful for the good dialogue with the next-of-kin, and I believe Sørbråten will be a good place for people to come to remember those who lost their lives in the attack on Utøya on 22 July 2011.'

On behalf of the government, Statsbygg will enter into an agreement with the landowner about leasing the area that is to be used for the memorial site. A long-term 50-year lease will be signed, with an extension option. A walkway will also be built to the memorial site.

Public Art Norway (KORO) is artistically responsible and will announce a competition for the design of the memorial site.

Statsbygg will now contact the municipality to discuss zoning of the property. According to the planned progress schedule, the memorial site will be completed by summer 2015.