The Parque Vivo del Guadaira association is calling for a review of the construction permits for Real Betis' planned Benito Villamarín stadium, labeling the project a "monstrous construction."

Local residents concerned about stadium’s impact on daily life

During a debate titled El Nuevo Benito Villamarín – a controversial iconic project, held at the Higher Technical School of Architecture at the University of Seville, neighborhood association representative Teresa García stressed that the project is based on an outdated and unsustainable agreement from 2003. Meanwhile, Cristina Rus pointed out that all meetings with the City Council and Betis have been unclear, as neither institution has clarified the final purpose of the adjacent land plot.

Antonio González Liñán, an architect and son of the original project’s designer who won the 1998 competition for the stadium’s construction, said his father’s design focused on combining functionality and aesthetics without considering urban expansion, as the site is too small to hold the proposed audience. The boundaries are very clear, Liñán noted, emphasizing that the initial design of the stadium, including the Fondo and Gol Norte stands, aimed to minimize its impact on the surrounding area. He further remarked that Betis appears to be taking an American-style approach, waiting to see how the project develops.

© Rafael de la-Hoz, Gensler

Residents take Action – a formal proposal submitted

In September, neighborhood associations in the Bellavista-La Palmera district requested that the Seville City Council halt Betis' stadium project. The local municipal board approved a motion to pause development until the project is adjusted to meet neighborhood needs and safety standards. The proposal from the Parque Vivo del Guadaira association was sent to Seville’s mayor, urging him not to permit development on the last open space near the Benito Villamarín stadium, citing concerns about the impact on residents' daily lives and potential safety risks. The residents oppose the proposed construction on a 32,000 m² plot next to the stadium, earmarked for commercial services.

© Rafael de la-Hoz, Gensler

The motion received 9 votes in favor, 5 against, and 10 abstentions. The approved proposal includes the following points:

1. Suspend current administrative processes for the approval of the Benito Villamarín New Stadium Planning Study and begin a new procedure that incorporates recommendations from the Saint Denis Convention and FIFA to maintain open space between the stadium and Doctor Fleming Street.

2. Consider the fair demands of local residents impacted by the project, which, if implemented, would affect their quality of life, particularly regarding mobility, air quality, and noise and light pollution.

3. Ensure all construction, operational, and event permits are granted only after publicly assessing whether the facilities meet relevant safety standards in accordance with both Spanish regulations and FIFA and European Council recommendations.