A dense park and, in the middle of the trees, a sports hall and a 16,000-seat stadium. Venice's councillors have approved 'Bosco dello sport' (a sports forest), project that will create a new entertainment and recreational space for the city's residents.

Although calcio is treated almost like a religion in Italy, the football infrastructure leaves much to be desired. It is largely old stadiums, some in better, some in worse condition. On the Apennine Peninsula, however, they dream of the European Championship, which obviously means the need for investment and the construction of new arenas.

© Comune di Venezia

Currently, the only project under construction is Atalanta Bergamo's stadium. Larger venues are waiting in line, including the replacement for San Siro, the new Franchi or the redevelopment of the arena in Bologna. Time is also counting down to the start of work in Venice. In the district of Tessera, a compact stadium with a capacity of 16,000 spectators is to be built. 

The councillors have just taken an important step towards building a sports complex, whose main element will be the above-mentioned football arena. They have approved an urban development project to create a sports and leisure district on 113 hectares of land.

© Comune di Venezia

The project's trademark is its respect for the environment and its implementation in accordance with the idea of sustainable development. The entire area will form a large urban forest. In its centre there will be a hall for 10,000 people and a football arena. The funds for the project (almost €334 million in total) will come mainly from the surrounding municipalities and from the National Reconstruction Plan, which the Italian government launched last year. 

The project also includes the completion of a new road system leading to the airport, the university campus and buildings for cultural events. In addition, medical facilities, a skatepark, spaces for various sports such as tennis, beach volleyball and basketball are planned.

© Comune di Venezia

There will also be an indoor swimming pool and accommodation for athletes, students and scientists. What will be missing, on the other hand, is typical commercial space such as a shopping centre or hotel. The entire plan has now been sent to the Ministry of Economy to start the funding stream.