Now it is finally available, the feasibility study with a long -gait to convert the Graz Football Stadium. The costs are a maximum of 150 million euros, at the earliest in four years the project could be completed. Sturm and Gak should not leave during work. Here are the details!
The years of the Stadiondebat in Graz changes straight into the house – or not? In the previous year it was agreed that there will be no two stadiums and no new building, but a modernization of the Arena in Liebenau. And the feasibility study of the mega project is now also available. The financing is still open.
Because if the plans are fully implemented, around 150 million euros would be needed! In addition to planning and construction work, the necessary purchases of real estate that are particularly intensive costs would include, according to the town hall.
Financing: partners of city and land needs
As it says, the city of Graz can “offer a participation of 30 million euros to conduct the project after a detailed investigation”. The State Styria also means the willingness to “bear a significant part of the costs” – but no amount has been communicated yet. A sensitive problem for the state government is currently working on a painful savings package. So external partners is also needed for financing. Construction companies are mainly intended here.
The “Krone” has already unveiled many details of the renewed Merkur Arena in April. Now they are performed exactly in the feasibility study.
Capacity at Derbies: 25,000 fans
The current capacity of 15,300 seats is increased to 20,071. So international competitions can take place again in Graz. The structural conditions in Liebenau make it difficult because the stadium is limited to all four sides (railways, ice rink, stadium tower, business center). The field is therefore lowered by 1.5 meters, the stadium farmer removed – three extra rows are possible. The stands are also being expanded. This requires a completely new roof structure, this is equipped with a PV system of 4000 m².
The storm fans continue to have their house in the northern curve, the GAK supporters belong to the South Curve. In home games the seats of 5000 would be room, a modular system would make this possible. Since the road sectors (depending on whether Gak or Storm Play, the guest sector walks to the north or south side), a capacity of 23,500 can be possible at normal Bundesliga games. At Stadtderbies there are even 25,000 fans!
VIP area, media, changing rooms: everything that is new
The west side receives a completely new face to the railways, so the stadium will again be Champions League. The VIP, Skyboxing and Business area is being extended to a capacity of 2016 people. The media will be housed in the same stands in the future – and the changing rooms will also walk there. This can create a pure, large spectator of the east side (direction Liebenauer Hautenstraße).
According to the city, the areas of noise and traffic are a challenge. If the stadium is expanded, there can be no deterioration in both cases, otherwise there is a threat of a long -term environmental impact assessment (RRP). That is why the stadium receives a coating around a new distribution level (with toilet facilities, kiosks, etc.). A concept for mobility has also been developed, more than 1000 new parking spaces must be made – for example in the Murpark Shopping Center or under the ice rink.
Two years of construction while operating
When can the project be realized? Not before 2029. Because the planning decision can be expected after four years: two years before planning, two years before the construction work. These would take place during operating! This means that Storms and Gak have to accept limitations, but not to switch for an entire season to Klagenfurt or Hartberg (but probably much shorter).
The feasibility study was completed at the end of May. Governor Mario Kunaseek (FPö) and his deputy Manuela Khom (ÖVP) were already informed on Monday. According to the town hall, the Sturm en Gak clubs were involved in the founding of the study.
“Costs exceed expectations”
“The feasibility study is completed on time and well and now shows the possibilities to expand the Liebenau Stadium. Due to the many structural obstacles, the costs exceed the expectations, therefore it requires a great effort for everyone involved in implementing this project,” says Mayor Elk Kahr (KPö). Vice mayor Judith Schwentner (Greens) also sees the federal government challenged when it comes to financing. “The country and the city must now come together and take responsibility together,” warns SPO chairman Doris Kampus.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
