Fresh challenges

Lynetteholmen is set to be one of the biggest urban development projects since the 1990s, but some are concerned about packing too many residents into the city centre and say further regeneration will be needed on the outskirts too as Copenhagen’s population swells.

Professor Ellen Braae, an architect and urban development professor at the University of Copenhagen, says while she’s “excited” about the project, she believes it could pose infrastructure challenges; although the goal is sustainability, many residents are likely to be affluent car-driving commuters. She also feels diversity should be prioritised, so the island does not become an enclave for higher earners.

There are also mixed views on the impact Lynetteholmen will have on the Refshaleøen, a hub for artists, foodies and innovators which will be connected to the new island via a bridge. Braae fears its identity could change if investors home in and the vibe becomes more corporate.

But others believe it could boost the local economy. “For us as a business, [it] would be one of the best things that could happen,” says gourmet fast food stall owner Dragos Sintimbrean, 29. “And citizens need a place to live!”