Real Madrid’s €400m (US$455m) plans to redevelop the Santiago Bernabéu have been halted following a ruling from the Spanish capital’s supreme court of justice.
In a statement issued by the club, Real Madrid announced the decision but insisted it will continue working with lawmakers to see the decision overturned.
“The High Court of Madrid has overturned the agreement from 15 November 2012, issued by the Community of Madrid’s Governing Council, which approved the Specific Modification of the Madrid General Development Plan, a decision that affects the Santiago Bernabéu.
“Following this ruling, Real Madrid C. F. will work with the City Council and the Community of Madrid to address those aspects that require attention in order to make the Santiago Bernabéu reform project viable.”
The Liga club unveiled its proposed changes in January of last year, with the renovation work intended to include a shopping center complex and a hotel in a 12,250m2 (131,859ft2) area adjacent to the ground, as well as further improvements to the current structure, such as a retractable roof.
Last week the Spanish sports newspaper AS reported that the Bernabéu would be renamed the Abu Dhabi Bernabéu. Real Madrid’s president, Florentino Pérez, was caught on camera admitting to a member of the regional government that the stadium will be called whatever the Abu Dhabi investment group Ipic wants it to be called.
