Puijo ski jumping centre to get viewing platform this autumn

Work to reshape the landscape at Puijo ski jumping centre in Kuopio is underway, with a viewing platform set to be completed this autumn, Yle reports.

The old K90 hill has been demolished, and its site is being landscaped into a meadow with a viewing platform at the former jump point. The project, costing approximately €940,000, also includes updating electrical and water systems across the area.

Heavy rains last weekend spread sand and soil onto the landing slopes of adjacent hills, disrupting work. The K64 hill’s landing slope was cleared on Monday, while the larger hill’s slope remains to be addressed.

Most of Puijo’s jumps are currently unusable due to the landscaping, forcing athletes to train elsewhere. National team coach Jarkko Saapunki noted the situation is far from ideal, with extra travel required this summer. A meeting in early August will assess when training can resume on the larger hills.

Saapunki remains hopeful a new K90 hill may one day be built, though it would require millions in state or external funding.