Ahead of TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Summit 2026 (#TDS26), we caught up with Thomas Perslund, CEO of Uppsala Arenor och Fastigheter, a municipal company that owns, manages, builds and develops arenas and properties in the Swedish city of Uppsala.
The company focuses on projects that are economically, environmentally and socially sustainable. Uppsala Arenor och Fastigheter has carried out a redevelopment project for Studenternas IP, a multi-purpose stadium that is used for football, bandy and other events.
Once complete, the stadium will have capacity for up 20,000 spectators for major outdoor concerts and live events. Perslund, who will be attending #TDS26 in Manchester from November 30 to December 2, gives us the lowdown on the project. 
TheStadiumBusiness: What is the vision behind the redevelopment of Studenternas, and what are the main goals the project has to achieve?
Thomas Perslund: “Studenternas is one of Sweden’s iconic destinations for sport and events and an important landmark in the heart of Uppsala. The vision has been to create a modern, sustainable and vibrant destination that supports elite sport while creating value for residents, visitors and the wider community throughout the year.
“The area brings together football, bandy, events and recreation in a unique city-centre setting. The ambition has been to strengthen Studenternas as a meeting place where sport, culture and community life can coexist while contributing to Uppsala’s long-term development and attractiveness.
“Key objectives have included improving the visitor experience, increasing flexibility for different types of events, creating opportunities for year-round activity and ensuring that Studenternas remains an attractive destination for future generations.” 
TSB: What is the current status of the project, and what are the next steps?
TP: “Following completion of the redevelopment, our focus has shifted towards continuous improvement and maximising the value of the facility. Current priorities include enhancing the visitor experience, optimising operations, strengthening sustainability efforts and increasing the utilisation of the venue through additional events and partnerships.
“As cities continue to evolve, we see Studenternas not only as a sports destination but also as an important urban meeting place that contributes to the attractiveness and vitality of Uppsala.
“An important focus is also to continue developing opportunities for events and experiences throughout the wider Studenternas area. By exploring new concepts, partnerships and uses of the site, we aim to create even more reasons for people to visit Studenternas throughout the year.
“At the same time, Uppsala is entering a new phase in its event and destination development. Plans are progressing for a new large-scale indoor event arena at Hovstallängen, which will complement existing venues and strengthen the city’s capacity to host concerts, sporting events, exhibitions and major public gatherings. Together with facilities such as Studenternas, the future arena will contribute to positioning Uppsala as one of Sweden’s leading destinations for sports, culture and live entertainment.
“The project represents an important opportunity to create long-term value for residents, visitors and the wider region, while supporting sustainable urban growth and an even more vibrant city centre.” 
TSB: What are the most interesting or challenging aspects of the project?
TP: “One of the interesting aspects of Studenternas is its ability to accommodate a wide variety of sports, events and audiences within one central destination. Balancing the needs of elite football, elite bandy, major concerts, community activities and public events requires flexibility in both design and operations.
“Another challenge has been balancing innovation with heritage. Studenternas has a long and proud history and is deeply embedded in the identity of Uppsala. Preserving that legacy while creating a modern and versatile destination has been an important consideration throughout the project.
“The area’s central location also presents unique opportunities. Few sports and event destinations are situated so close to a city centre and alongside significant recreational and green areas. This creates strong connections between sport, urban life and community engagement.”
TSB: What are you most looking forward to at #TDS26?
TP: “We are looking forward to meeting industry peers who are working on the next generation of sports and entertainment venues.
“Topics such as sustainability, visitor experience, digital innovation and the role of sports and event destinations in urban development are highly relevant to our work. We are eager to exchange experiences, learn from successful international projects and discuss how venues can create value not only on event days but throughout the year.
“We are also looking forward to sharing insights from Studenternas and discussing how sports and event destinations can strengthen both city life and community engagement.”
Join Perslund and hundreds of other delegates at #TDS26. Book today to save on our Earlybird offer (before 23 October) – Pass Only: £895 (saving >£100). Accommodation rate at Official Hotel available on request.
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