While specialized machines gradually erase elements of the old Real Zaragoza stadium, the city is already considering how the new Romareda will look in the future. An important tender is expected to be announced soon. However, what do we know so far?

Tender preparations

The City Council and the government of Aragon are currently working on a construction project developed by Idom, aiming to announce the tender for works, scheduled to begin in early 2025, by mid-September. The document includes new details about the future football pitch, such as the materials to be used for the roof, including translucent polycarbonate, which will improve sunlight on the field.

Once the demolition of the Gol Sur stands and the El Cubo building is complete, excavation of the foundation and preparation of retaining walls will begin, followed by construction. The stadium will be Breeam-certified and will include environmentally friendly elements. Breeam certification (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology) is a method for assessing and certifying the sustainable development of buildings. Currently, 30 football stadiums worldwide hold this certification, and it is a crucial requirement for hosting the 2030 World Cup.

© IDOM

Striving for Breeam certification

Nueva Romareda will incorporate elements that guarantee energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. The stadium will feature a condensation ring connected to an open geothermal system, with all energy consumption being monitored. Three lines of solar panels will be installed on the roof, ensuring the stadium is self-sufficient in energy. The entire design prioritizes energy savings as well as promoting thermal, visual, acoustic, and environmental comfort.

The pursuit of Breeam certification influenced the final design of the future stadium. Idom's engineers ensured that the infrastructure meets the necessary requirements to obtain the certification. In the first phase of certification, Idom technicians must ensure compliance with responsible construction practices. To this end, they will develop an environmental management plan that considers safe access, good relationships with the surrounding environment, ecological awareness, and a safe and respectful working environment.

© IDOM

Environmentally conscious

The construction team will minimize the environmental impact by controlling carbon emissions, energy usage, and water consumption. Efficient toilets will be installed, and the pitch drainage system will be designed for water reuse. All timber used must come from sustainably managed and legally sourced plantations. Compliance with the construction plan will be monitored, ensuring that 95% of waste is diverted from landfills through selective sorting at the source. The stadium design also includes waste recovery, the possibility of using recycled aggregate, and responsible material sourcing.

The contractor will be obligated to protect all ecologically valuable elements, such as trees and hedges, and take measures to reduce dust. During work on the new Romareda, plastic covers will be installed over sterile material storage areas, and surfaces prone to dust generation will be periodically watered. LED lighting with focused beams will be used. A green terrace will be built on La Romareda’s roof, containing features to reduce noise and light pollution.