Helsinki removes Suvilahti arena from Tukkutori plans

Helsinki has removed the planned Suvilahti Arena from its future zoning plans, Yle reports. The multi-purpose venue, which was expected to hold more than 20,000 spectators, would have been the largest of its kind in the Nordic countries.

The arena was planned for Helsinki’s Tukkutori district and was expected to be built during the 2030s. Construction was estimated to cost between 250 million and 300 million euros, with work potentially starting between 2028 and 2030.

The city had included the arena in plans for gradually redeveloping the area since planning began in 2024. It now says it wants to preserve Tukkutori’s industrial, distinctive and rough-edged character while making the district more lively through culture and events.

The proposed arena was backed by Ilpo Kokkila, the principal owner of construction and real estate group SRV, as well as former NHL players Olli Jokinen and Karri Rämö.

Tukkutori currently includes Teurastamo, a food-focused urban cultural centre, wholesale businesses and warehouse buildings. Existing land lease agreements remain valid until 2036, and Helsinki City Premises Oy, owned by the city, manages about half of the district’s current premises.

A separate event centre, Suvilahti Event Hub, is still planned for the Suvilahti district, according to the city. The project is backed by actor Mikko Leppilampi. Construction could begin no earlier than this autumn, with completion expected in 2029 if work starts on schedule.