The Regional Administrative Court of Lazio (TAR) has dismissed a request for interim measures filed by residents opposing the construction of AS Roma’s new stadium in the Pietralata district.

Tree dispute clarified

The case concerned the planned removal of 26 trees of various species, necessary for creating so-called trincee – excavation trenches required for conducting archaeological surveys at the stadium site. However, these trees are not located within the forested area previously contested by the No Stadio committee, on which the City Hall had to provide clarification. The disputed trees grow in a different part of the plot.

The request for interim measures aimed to protect the greenery until the court issued a final ruling, but it was rejected. As a result, the court gave the green light for continuing preparatory work for the AS Roma stadium project. Legal actions against the investment in Pietralata have been ongoing since the City Council passed a resolution declaring the stadium project to be in the public interest. These actions were initiated by local residents, civic associations, and political opposition groups.

© AS Roma

City Hall confident in the legality of procedures

Tree removal began on May 19, following the marking of the area for archaeological investigation. These actions also drew criticism from residents, social organisations, and opposition politicians, who claimed the area could qualify as urban woodland. However, the city clarified that the removal was previously authorised and does not involve more than 1.5 hectares – the threshold that would require a separate forestation assessment under Italian regulations. This stage of work was also subject to a request for interim measures, which was ultimately denied.

Rome City Hall welcomed the TAR decision, emphasising that it confirms the legality of the administrative process behind the stadium project. Officials stated that, despite repeated and – in their view – unjustified attempts to halt the investment, the work can now proceed without obstacles. The AS Roma stadium project in Pietralata remains one of the city’s key infrastructure development initiatives.

© AS Roma