Construction work on Real Betis' new stadium is progressing according to schedule, giving the Verdiblancos plenty of reason for optimism. The club plans to return to its home ground in August 2028, in time for the start of the 2028/29 season. However, a complaint recently filed with the Public Prosecutor's Office could jeopardize those plans.

Positive progress in Heliópolis

After months of construction delays, heavy machinery returned to the Heliópolis site in April to resume work. Two and a half months later, the club has every reason to be satisfied with the progress. The first phase of the project, which involves constructing reinforced concrete diaphragm walls one metre wide and 26 metres deep—essential for waterproofing and stabilising the ground—is now halfway complete. This stage of the construction of the Villamarín is expected to be finished before the end of the summer, allowing the noisiest and most disruptive works to end before schools reopen and residents return to their normal routines.

Progress has also been made in the surrounding area. Sidewalk renovation works on Doctor Fleming Street have been completed, improving accessibility and pedestrian movement around the stadium.

© Espai Héctor | Work on Real Betis’ stadium in Heliópolis is progressing according to schedule, with the club planning to return to the redeveloped venue in August 2028.

Environmentalists' complaint: "Preferential treatment for Real Betis Balompié as a private entity"

Despite measures that were, at least in theory, intended to minimise the impact on local residents, the club has not escaped criticism. It now faces official complaints from neighbourhood associations and environmental groups.

The Seville branch of Ecologistas en Acción (Ecologists in action) first raised concerns in the middle of last month, alleging possible irregularities in the urban planning process. According to the organisation, these irregularities may have caused serious harm to municipal assets while benefiting the club. The complaint is supported by neighbourhood associations... which oppose the introduction of new commercial and tertiary uses on the municipal plot located between the stadium and Doctor Fleming Street.

The environmental group has now gone a step further by taking the matter before Andalusia's High Court. According to the organisation, the documentation it reviewed points to possible irregularities in certain administrative actions that could give rise to criminal liability. Among the potential offences mentioned are misconduct in public office and crimes against public assets, although it will ultimately be up to the Public Prosecutor's Office to determine the appropriate legal classification of the alleged facts.

© Espai Héctor | The Betis stadium project could still face legal complications. Environmental groups and local residents allege possible irregularities in the urban planning procedures surrounding the redevelopment.

Asked by Diario de Sevilla for comment, Real Betis responded firmly, stating that the club has complied at all times with current legislation and with all the requirements established in relation to the stadium project. The club also said it had no knowledge of the complaint at the time of its response.

Betis is not the only club that could face legal scrutiny. Its city rival, Sevilla FC, may also be affected, as its planned redevelopment of the Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium has likewise been challenged by the same environmental organisation.

It remains to be seen how these legal proceedings will affect both projects. However, judging by the precedent set by the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and the restrictions imposed on concerts there, the outcome could represent a significant setback for both clubs.