Architect S&P has been appointed by Dutch football team AZ Alkmaar to design the retail and leisure element of a £80m mixed-use leisure arena in Alkmaar, in north-west Holland
The £40m, 60,000 m2 retail and leisure centre is an integral part of the football club's stadium development. Revenue from the centre will be used to pay back the cost of building the stadium.

The complex will be the first in Europe to offer entertainment facilities and a football pitch under one roof.

The scheme will include a multiplex cinema, restaurants, nightclubs, 10-pin bowling, retail outlets and a casino.

S&P will be working alongside Dutch architect Zwarts & Jansma, which is designing the 13,000 seat stadium.

The complex is due for completion in 2005, and will become one of the venues used for the World Youth Football Championships.