Rauma and NCC Sign Preliminary Design-Build Agreement for Ice Arena Project – View the New Visualisations of the Renewed Arena
Uutinen
The City of Rauma and NCC signed a design-build (DB) preliminary agreement for the renovation and expansion project of the Äijänsuo Ice Arena on Friday, 26 June 2026. With the signing, the project moves into the development phase, during which the plans will be finalized and prepared for implementation. The development phase is scheduled to begin in August 2026.
– The signing of the development phase agreement moves the project forward in a concrete way. At the same time, the newly released visualizations provide the first clear overall picture of the kind of modern and versatile event venue we are building, says Kimmo Salminen, Acting Director of Facility Services for the City of Rauma.
The visualizations prepared for the project illustrate the appearance of the renovated arena. The expansion will include a new main stand, restaurant and hospitality facilities, and a dedicated training space for Rauman Lukko. The arena’s exterior will also be modernized, and its capacity will increase by approximately 700 spectators.
The goal is to begin construction in spring 2027 and commission the renovated arena in late 2028.
Toward a Multi-Purpose Ice Arena
The Äijänsuo renovation and expansion project has progressed through an extensive preparation process. Planning work began well before the official tendering phase through workshops and negotiations.
Following the final tender competition, NCC was selected as the project contractor. The company’s bid of €17.9 million met the required cost level and tender requirements and came in below the maximum budget set by the City.
– We are pleased to advance the Äijänsuo Ice Arena project together with the City of Rauma and Rauman Lukko. The project is an interesting and multifaceted undertaking for us, and cooperation has been excellent since the preparation phase, says Esa Lehmusvuori, Business Area Director at NCC.
The project will be delivered as a design-build contract, meaning that the contractor is responsible for both the design and construction of the project as a complete turnkey solution. The project is being advanced openly, transparently, and in close cooperation between the City of Rauma and Rauman Lukko Ltd.
– This project is a great example of the Rauma way of working together. The City, the sports club, and the contractor have jointly developed the plans to create an arena that serves both elite sports and events, while enhancing the city’s year-round attractiveness, Kimmo Salminen adds.
The project has also been warmly welcomed by the sports club. Rauman Lukko sees the renovation as an important investment in the future.
– This project gives us the opportunity to build the future on an even stronger foundation. The renewed arena will serve supporters, athletes, partners, and the region’s event industry for decades to come. It is a significant investment whose positive impacts will undoubtedly be felt far into the future, emphasizes Rafael Eerola, CEO of Rauman Lukko.
The aim of the renovation is to create an ice arena that meets the requirements of the Finnish Hockey League while also providing facilities for other events, such as concerts. In addition, the project will extend the building’s lifespan and improve its energy efficiency.
