Spain: Council approves, Valencia pays — Nou Mestalla development plan finalized

30.10.2025 16:42 source: StadiumDB.com; author: Paulina Skóra

The City Council has officially approved the urban development plan for the area surrounding Nou Mestalla, allowing the integration of both sporting and commercial uses. The plan, known as Estudio Detalle, defines the future land-use guidelines for the surroundings of Valencia CF’s new stadium.

Approval granted in exchange for a payment toward a municipal sports complex

The main goal of the plan is to establish parameters for the size and shape of buildings designated for commercial and service functions around Nou Mestalla, ensuring they comply with existing regulations, fit harmoniously into the cityscape, and do not overshadow the stadium, which is intended to remain a visually prominent landmark. The plan also provides for the creation of open and accessible public spaces. The decision concerns the area between Avenida de las Corts Valencianes and Calle Nicasio Benlloch, in the Benicalap district. The proposal was approved by council members from the People’s Party (PP), VOX, and the Socialists, with opposition from the Compromís group. As Urban Planning Councillor Juan Giner reminded, the approval was conditional on a payment of €11.2 million from the club to the city’s account. These funds will be used to build a new municipal sports complex in Benicalap. On the same day, Valencia CF confirmed the transfer of the required sum.

Councillors react to the decision

During the debate, Socialist councillor Borja Sanjuán explained his party’s support: We voted in favour because, while this isn’t a perfect solution, under the current circumstances it’s the least bad one. We want to ensure that Benicalap residents receive the promised sports centre and that the club meets its obligations. Meanwhile, Compromís spokeswoman Papi Robles criticized the timing of the vote, noting that it took place before the funds were officially received. We do not trust the current management of the club. It’s incomprehensible that the city authorities have adopted such a wait-and-see attitude, she said.