Real Betis has taken a key step towards building a new Benito Villamarín. The acquisition of strategic plots brings a long-standing administrative deadlock to an end and clears the way for a project set to transform the stadium and its relationship with the city.

Key land swap and end of bureaucracy

On Tuesday, January 27, the Executive Commission of the Urban Planning Management Board took a decisive step by approving the segregation of two plots that will be formally integrated into the new Benito Villamarín project. This procedure marks the administrative conclusion of months of work and allows Real Betis to acquire lands previously owned by the city.

The agreement involves incorporating over 8,800 square meters of land on the west side of the facility, known as the Preferencia esplanade at Doctor Fleming Street, and a smaller parcel of approximately 470 square meters on the east side, adjacent to Avenida de la Palmera, into the stadium area.

This decision evidences a new quality of cooperation between the club and the city hall, breaking a two-decade administrative deadlock. Only 141 days have passed since the current club authorities and José Luis Sanz's government took the first formal steps to obtain key permits. This urban planning operation allows Betis to execute a project based on unified development, which is essential for constructing the new stand and accompanying commercial infrastructure.

© Real Betis Balompié | The new Villamarin will have a slightly reduced capacity, by several hundred seats.

New space for Seville residents instead of fences

The incorporation of new lands entails a deep transformation of the public space around the stadium. Acquiring the smaller plot at Avenida de la Palmera, which includes a sidewalk section with a bus stop, allows for the removal of the current external perimeter fence and the creation of a publicly accessible square of approximately 2,500 square meters. Meanwhile, the western esplanade, currently serving as a temporary parking lot, will accommodate a new terraced building with a maximum height of 47 meters. This facility will house a hotel, health center, gym, and offices.

In exchange for the transfer of municipal lands, the City Council secured specific compensations serving the local community. According to the approved plan, the city hall will receive a 1,000-square-meter premise within the new complex dedicated to public use. Additionally, the project provides for a three-level underground garage, where the city will manage a pool of approximately 185 rotary parking spots. This solution aims primarily to relieve traffic congestion in the district.

© Real Betis Balompié | The facility in Seville will receive a full roof and an impressive facade.

Race against time and contractor selection

The investment, with a total estimated budget exceeding €262 million, is entering its decisive phase. Following the demolition of the old stand, the club is conducting final talks with three potential contractors: Sacyr, Fomento y Sando, and Acciona. According to the adopted schedule, the contract for earthworks and foundations is to be signed by the end of February, with works lasting until the end of June this year.

The main construction phase, covering the erection of the new 12,000-seat stand and the adjacent building, will commence in July. The project, financed partly by the CVC fund and external loans, is set to be completed before the summer of 2028. Barring unforeseen obstacles, the new Benito Villamarín will be inaugurated on May 2, 2028.