The reclassification, which involves the stadium occupying more than one hectare of surrounding green space in exchange for a similar plot at the sports complex near the Utrera highway, has been approved by the Seville urban planning authorities.

Larger plot = larger stadium

This change marks a significant step forward in the planning study for the urban transformation of the Nuevo Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán. The documentation outlines specific details about the change in urban conditions, including increasing the stadium's plot size by 10,380 m², bringing the total to 40,490 m². This land is essential for constructing a top-class international stadium with a capacity of around 55,000 spectators.

The green spaces around the stadium will be reduced. In exchange, Sevilla FC has committed to reclassifying a plot of the same size as a green area within its training complex. Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán is currently classified as a private sports facility with a plot size of 30,110 m², surrounded by 21,738 m² of green space. Meanwhile, the sports city spans 269,462 m².

© Sevilla FC, IDOM

Will the case go to court?

Susana Hornillo, spokeswoman for the Con Podemos-IU municipal group, has expressed her opposition, calling on the authorities to reformulate the urban development plan for the stadium’s expansion, ensuring that in accordance with Andalusian legislation, the project aligns with the principle of public interest, while the city receives economic benefits. Hornillo emphasizes that the current urban development actions do not guarantee adequate community participation in the capital gains, as stated in Article 3, Section 2 of the Land Law, and Article 49 of Decree 550/2022.

Reclassifying 10,380 m² for private use in Nervión will result in capital gains for Seville due to the increased stadium capacity by around 10,000 spectators and enhanced sports, commercial, and recreational activities planned for 365 days a year. In return, Sevilla FC will provide a similarly sized plot located at its distant sports city, which is over 6 kilometers from the area where the urban planning work will take place.

Hornillo warns that if the maximum public interest provided for by law is not achieved, the case could end up in court, citing a ruling by the Supreme Court of the Community of Madrid, 77/2015, which annulled the urban modification for the Santiago Bernabéu expansion due to non-compliance with public interest.

© Sevilla FC, IDOM