Planit makes overseas debut

Altrincham-based landscape architects Planit-IE have won their first international project as part of the team chosen to design a new £120m arena in Ørestad South, Copenhagen, Denmark.

The winning team for the 15,000-seat indoor arena is led by Danish architects 3XN, alongside the UK office of HKS Architects. The runners-up were Foster + Partners and Grimshaw with CF Møller.

Pete Swift, Director of Planit said: "We are thrilled to be part of this winning team. From a chance introduction to 3XN via HKS, we have landed our first overseas project and beaten the best in the world. We're looking forward to working with the team and clients, not only to create a stunning arena, but to set it within a diverse and inspiring public park which will operate from day one and grow and mature for years to come."

Planit-IE will now work with 3XN, HKS, Arup and ME Engineers to develop the designs to create a world-class arena set in a vibrant and attractive environment, a characterful place which will support the daily life of the emerging Ørestad neighbourhood.

The Copenhagen competition placed emphasis on sustainable technology and materials, to further strengthen Denmark's leading position in green architecture. The arena will be operated by American company Live Nation, which operates a number of venues in the UK including the O2 Arena in London. It is expected the arena will be completed by 2015.

Planit was set up in 1998 by Pete Swift, Edward Lister and Rich Line and has studios in Altrincham, London and Liverpool.