HOK International Architecture has unveiled its plans for the mixed-use regeneration of the eastern fringes of St Petersburg in Russia.

The masterplan for the 60-hectare (148-acre) site, which outlines plans for the city's first 'Techno Park', includes a hotel, public space, retail units, offices and apartments. The development, managed by Finland-based Technopolis, will be located on the premises of the Bonch-Bruevich St. Petersburg State University of Telecommunications.

HOK’s Head of Planning in London, Tim Gale, comments: “This is a new genre of master planning for St Petersburg and it’s a brave move for the City. The plan seeks to capture the synergy between the academic base and more commercial uses to provide a dynamic and democratic heart to the district. "There are no limits as to who will be based at the site: large and small businesses, academia or community. We look forward to seeing it develop.”

The scheme will be financed through both public and private investment: about a third of the development will be State funded. Construction work is due to begin in 2010 after planning permission has been granted. Completion of the project is expected in 2015.