Helsinki are accelerating one of the most comprehensive sport-urban projects in the region. At Oulunkylä Sports Park, a new stadium is planned—but it’s only part of a much bigger vision combining sport, housing, and green spaces, while also sparking debate among residents about the future of the area.

Integration of Oulunkylä Sports Park stadium with the existing sports infrastructure

Oulunkylä Sports Park is already one of the key sports complexes in Helsinki. It includes football pitches, athletics facilities, an ice hall, a gym, and spaces for activities such as dance and gymnastics. During the winter season, a large outdoor ice rink also operates there.

The construction of the stadium does not mean these functions will disappear. The project assumes that the existing sports infrastructure will be preserved, with the exception of the athletics section, which will be modernised and partially relocated. Plans include building a new 100-metre sprint track and designating areas for field events such as long jump and shot put. As a result, the park is expected to continue serving both elite sport and everyday recreation.

The project also includes the construction of a stadium with a capacity of around 8,000 seats, which is intended to become a modern venue for both domestic matches and international events.

Cooperation between the City of Helsinki and IF Gnistan in the construction of the stadium

A key element of the project is ongoing negotiations between the City of Helsinki and the football club IF Gnistan, which currently uses the facilities in Oulunkylä. The stadium is set to become the club’s main home ground, improving both its organisational and sporting capacity. The cooperation covers not only stadium usage, but also functionality, compliance with league requirements, and the club’s potential future development. The new venue is expected to allow matches to be played at a higher level and attract a larger number of supporters.

The stadium project is part of a wider urban plan that also includes residential development. In the immediate vicinity of Oulunkylä Sports Park, new housing is planned for around 500 residents. Buildings ranging from five to seven storeys are expected along Hirsipadontie and Käskynhaltijantie streets.

Helsinki are planning an 8,000-seat stadium in Oulunkylä, integrated with the existing sports complex without removing its key facilities.

The proximity of the light rail line makes the location attractive in terms of transport links. City authorities assume that the development of residential and sports infrastructure will complement each other, creating a coherent and functional urban space.

Protection of green areas in the construction of Oulunkylä Sports Park stadium

One of the key assumptions of the project is maintaining a balance between infrastructure development and environmental protection. The northern part of the park is to remain a recreational, forest-like area without construction. Trees in key locations, including near the ice rink and the main entrance, will also be preserved.

This approach is intended to maintain the green character of the area and ensure public access to recreational spaces. Designers emphasise that the stadium is meant to be part of the landscape, not a dominant element.

© Aki Rask | The project also includes new housing, infrastructure upgrades and green space protection, although it raises concerns among residents about noise and traffic.

Residents’ concerns over the construction of the stadium in Helsinki

As with many urban projects, the stadium plan in Oulunkylä has also faced criticism from some residents. Concerns raised include the impact of sporting events on daily life in the area, particularly noise, traffic levels, and safety.

Special attention has been given to stadium lighting. Residents fear that intense lighting could be disruptive, so the project includes modern lighting systems designed to limit light spillage beyond the stadium area. Questions have also been raised about access to spaces for children and young people, as well as the availability of sufficient areas for school activities.

Modernisation of lighting and infrastructure of Oulunkylä stadium in Helsinki

In response to the comments, the project includes upgrades to technical systems, including stadium lighting. The new installations are to be integrated into the structure and designed to minimise disruption to the surroundings.

The plan also includes development of other sports facilities in the park, so they can continue to serve local clubs, schools, and residents. The infrastructure is expected to be used year-round, regardless of the season.

Construction schedule for Oulunkylä stadium and the future of the sports complex

Planning for Oulunkylä Sports Park began in spring 2025 and is currently at the stage of refining project details and conducting public consultations. At the same time, analyses are underway for the next phases of investment, including the construction of a new ice rink planned for roughly five years’ time.

The entire project is long-term and phased, allowing changes to be introduced gradually without disrupting the existing infrastructure. If all assumptions are implemented, Oulunkylä Sports Park will become one of the most comprehensive and modern sports centres in Helsinki, combining sporting, recreational, and residential functions.