THE NINE ISLANDS

The Danish government and greater Copenhagen mayors in collaboration with Urban Power Architecture & Planning have embarked on an ambitious scheme to create nine new islands off the coast of Copenhagen.

The Holmene Project will be located 10 km south of Copenhagen with the islands made from surplus soil, derived from the region's subway and building projects.

The islands will provide around three million square metres of new space, including commercial and industrial areas and a natural landscape for sports and outdoor activities. Green energy is a major focus and the islands will boast wind turbines and the largest Waste-to-Energy plant in Northern Europe. Additionally, flood defences and inaccessible reefs and islets meant for local wildlife will be created and the islands will include nature trails and cycle paths.

The construction budget is estimated at $500 million with the islands to be created one at a time.

 “The strategy has several advantages,” explained Urban Power's Arne Cermak Nielsen. “It can be developed stepwise without leaving the impression of an unfinished project if a new economic recession appears. Furthermore, the islands can be thematically developed, leaving the best conditions for the innovative industry and research within green tech, biotech, life science and future unknown sectors. The quality of being by the water should not be underestimated, and the shores of the islands and the delta that emerge between them has a unique potential.”

Construction is expected to begin in 2022 and be completed in 2040.

Images courtesy of Urban Power