Kuopio’s long-delayed stadium project attracts builders as tendering begins next summer

The city of Kuopio will hold bilateral negotiations with around ten construction firms in April, with a final plan expected by late spring, reports Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

Nearly 100 participants attended a market dialogue event on Tuesday, where the city presented the stadium project, zoning plans, and business opportunities. The discussions aim to determine the most viable way to tender the project, clarify the budget, and set a construction timeline.

Marko Väätäinen, head of construction services for the city, confirmed that several construction companies and potential partners expressed interest in both building the stadium and developing the surrounding area. “The talks include parties interested in construction and real estate development across the entire stadium precinct,” he said.

The current Keskuskenttä stadium has a 2,700-seat main stand and a 500-seat end section. The new plan envisions fully covered stands on all sides, with capacity for 8,000 spectators—meeting UEFA’s Category 4 requirements.

The city would oversee construction of sports facilities, including stands, changing rooms, the pitch, and lighting, while commercial operations would be separated onto a dedicated plot.

Tomi Erola, CEO of Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS), called the level of interest “extremely positive” in an interview with Yle. “This has been discussed for years, but now we’re at a concrete stage. I believe the project will move forward,” he said, adding that potential investors include both private individuals and businesses.

Erola hopes construction will begin next year: “We’re aiming to break ground in 2025.”

The city will finalise the project plan by late spring, with formal tendering to start in summer 2024. Negotiations with around ten firms will take place in April.