Akureyri Launches Design Competition to Reshape Former Stadium Site

2026-02-07 - 14:37

For more than 20 years, residents of Northern major city Akureyri have debated the future of the town’s former main sports ground, Akureyrarvöllur. As reported by RÚV, the local authority has launched a design ideas competition aimed at reimagining the prominent site once the stadium is no longer in use. What's the Story? Ideas competition launched to redevelop Akureyrarvöllur stadium site Akureyri, northern Iceland, between the town centre and Glerártorg Organised by the City of Akureyri; judged by architects and city councillors Stadium in use since 1951; last used by KA before relocation four years ago Mixed-use development proposed, including housing, commercial space and public areas Competition results due at the end of May; prizes of 1–6 million ISK Akureyri. Photo: Kaldbakstindur. Wikimedia. CC. The venue, which hosted key sporting events from 1951 onwards, was home to clubs including Þór, ÍBA and, most recently, KA. KA relocated to a new stadium four years ago, leaving the centrally located site unused. Akureyrarvöllur sits between the town centre and Glerártorg, close to City Hall. “This is in the best location in town, a large and vast area that has enormous potential,” says Pétur G. Haraldsson, director of planning at the City of Akureyri. He added that the sheer scale of possibilities may have slowed earlier decision-making. Previous proposals have ranged from retail development to housing and leisure spaces, but none have progressed. The new competition invites ambitious architectural ideas and encourages mixed-use development. According to Haraldsson, the competition is exploring the prospect of a mixed-use development, including residential and commercial areas, public spaces and event venues. Potential designs could feature low-rise buildings near surrounding roads, with open public areas closer to the existing stands.