Victoria Stadium, situated on Winston Churchill Avenue, has long been our primary sporting venue. However, it is now set to be demolished as part of an ambitious modernisation initiative. The project also involves the removal of the former CEPSA petrol station, the AquaGib pumping station, and smaller structures, including the well-loved Murga Bar, three kiosks within the stadium, and nearby warehouses.
The decision-making process was fraught with tensions. Allan Asquez, the owner of Murga Bar, sought to prevent the demolition, emphasizing that the business had been a livelihood for his family and employees for 25 years. However, the Development and Planning Commission (DPC) denied his request to delay the decision. A spokesperson for the Gibraltar government told local media that the owner's expectations were deemed unreasonable. Despite efforts at negotiation, the dispute concluded with the decision to proceed immediately, with construction set to begin in May 2025.
New National Stadium
The proposed New National Stadium of Gibraltar, which received preliminary approval in March last year, is set to become a major sports and cultural venue overlooking the Bay of Gibraltar. Designed to accommodate 8,000 spectators, the stadium will include state-of-the-art sports facilities, along with retail, office, and residential spaces. Beyond sporting events, it will also serve as a venue for music concerts and other large-scale cultural activities.
In line with UEFA requirements, the stadium will host both Gibraltar national team matches and games featuring teams in European competitions. While the sporting community has largely embraced the project, some residents have raised concerns about increased traffic and potential environmental challenges during construction. Authorities have assured that appropriate measures will be taken to minimize disruptions, with the project adhering to strict environmental standards to limit its impact.
Funding for the project will come from a consortium of Gibraltar banks, which plans to commercialise the facility after completion. The stadium will also function as a community hub, blending sporting, cultural, and commercial uses to serve a variety of needs.
