The Councilor for Urbanism, Matías Ruiz Peñalver, addressed the Extraordinary Basic Services Committee to provide an update on the Sports City project in Orihuela. During his presentation, Ruiz detailed the project’s features, location, technical studies, and the alternatives offered to homeowners whose properties are affected.
Ruiz explained that the Sports City’s main sports facilities are located in areas without residential buildings. As for the existing properties, the town hall has proposed three options for affected homeowners:
• Relocation: Homeowners can move to a new development of 29 homes being built by the Municipal Housing and Land Company.
• Compensation: Homeowners who prefer an economic payout can receive compensation based on mutual agreement and valuation.
• Stay: Residents who choose to stay will be able to remain in their homes under a revised plan for the Sports City.
Regarding the land, Ruiz noted that it is classified as non-buildable, and the existing homes are considered out of regulation. The town hall will reserve municipal land for relocating residents.
The councillor emphasized that the decision is critical for the affected residents, and the process will be transparent. Residents will be able to select the option that best suits their needs, with no one being forced into a decision.
A Project Backed by Technical Studies
Ruiz highlighted that the Sports City project has been designed based on various technical studies. Notably, a flood risk study conducted by the consultancy EVREN evaluated two potential locations: one to the south and another to the east of the city. After analyzing flood risks from the Segura River and its tributaries, the eastern location was found to be the safest.
Ruiz reassured that the project complies with all relevant regulations, particularly the Hydraulic Public Domain Regulation, and has been carefully planned to ensure safety and feasibility.
Connectivity and Accessibility
Another point discussed was ensuring proper connectivity between the Sports City and the rest of the municipality. Ruiz stated that sectorial reports are currently being processed, and depending on their outcome, road connections will be improved. One proposal under consideration is extending Avenida Gómez Pardo to the CV-930, as outlined in the General Urban Planning Plan of Orihuela.
New Football Stadium
The Sports City also includes the construction of a new football stadium to replace the outdated Los Arcos stadium. Ruiz acknowledged that while Los Arcos is an iconic venue, it no longer meets the standards for the city, and a modern facility is necessary.
The new stadium will have a capacity of 5,000 spectators, with future expansion plans to accommodate 8,000. It will feature modern changing rooms, a gym, medical facilities, offices, storage areas, and ample parking.
Dialogue with Affected Residents
Ruiz emphasized that the town hall understands the uncertainty the affected residents are experiencing. He assured them that the process has just begun, and they will be informed at every stage. While the final decision cannot be made until all sectorial reports are completed, Ruiz promised that the affected residents will have the final say on the best option for their homes.
Ruiz concluded by reiterating that the Sports City is vital for Orihuela’s future, but the development must be as respectful as possible toward the current residents. No one will be forced into a decision without knowing all their options and receiving the necessary support.
BACKGROUND TO THE SPORTS CITY PROJECT
The new Orihuela Sports City will be located in the Los Huertos area, covering a total area of 150,045.90 m². This location was selected after a flood risk study identified it as the least susceptible to flooding within the city’s urban area, allowing for simple and feasible corrective measures.
PLANNED FACILITIES
The project will include various sports and multipurpose facilities, such as:
• A football stadium with a capacity for 8,000 spectators
• An athletics track for 2,500 spectators
• A secondary football field for 1,000 spectators
• A multi-sports pavilion for 2,000 people
• A multipurpose auditorium with a 12,000-seat capacity, which will be used for concerts, fairs, and emergency situations
• Additional green spaces, sports circuits, rest areas, and parking facilities
PHASED DEVELOPMENT
The development of Orihuela Sports City will take place in several phases. The initial phase, which is already underway, includes:
• Structural planning
• Strategic Environmental and Territorial Evaluation
• Modification of the general urban planning plan (PGOU)
Once this phase is completed, sectoral studies will be adjusted, and detailed planning will be finalized. The project will then require final approvals from both the municipal government and the Valencian regional government. After these approvals, the city will proceed with land acquisition and the technical project drafting for the construction phase.
IMPACT ON RESIDENTS
For residents affected by the project, the municipality offers three options:
• Relocation to a newly developed 29-home housing project, to be built by the Municipal Public Housing and Land Company
• Financial compensation based on property valuation and agreement
• Remaining in their current homes, with adjustments to align with the new Sports City planning
WHY LOS HUERTOS?
The Los Huertos area was chosen for its urban and territorial advantages:
• Optimal accessibility, supporting the “15-minute city” concept, ensuring easy pedestrian access from any part of the city
• Minimal flood risk, making it the safest option compared to other previously analyzed areas
The Orihuela Sports City is expected to be a transformative project for the city, providing state-of-the-art sports and recreational facilities while integrating into the urban fabric in a sustainable and accessible way.
