A Setback for the Ciudad Deportiva de Antigua Project
The Ciudad Deportiva de Antigua project, which was slated for completion in the summer of 2023, has hit another snag. The local government has announced unexpected cost overruns due to errors in the original designs, necessitating an urgent reallocation of funds. Initially set to cost €5.19 million, the total investment required has now ballooned to €7 million.
Timeline and Background of the Project
The groundwork for the Ciudad Deportiva began in 2016, when the Antigua Town Hall proposed a comprehensive renovation of the sports complex. A formal agreement was reached with the Fuerteventura Cabildo in 2017, and by the end of 2021, the project was awarded to a contractor for €5.19 million. The project included an ambitious plan to refurbish the existing Juan Lasso Brito stadium and construct new sports facilities on a sprawling 21,954 square meter area.
Rising Concerns Over Delays
Recent communications from Antigua’s Town Hall have expressed deep concerns regarding the project’s delays. The municipality cited “modifications in the project” and an “increase in execution costs” as primary factors contributing to the overruns. On October 14, a meeting took place with key figures, including Mayor Matías Peña, Sports Councillor Samuel Torres, and Cabildo President Lola García, where they acknowledged the setbacks and committed to expediting the bidding process once the technical errors have been rectified.
Financial Implications
The Cabildo plans to tackle the project in two phases, with funds earmarked in upcoming budgets. However, new estimates suggest that the project might not reach completion until 2027, nearly a decade after its inception. The initial contract was for €6,994,470, but discrepancies in bidding and awarding indicate an impending financial shortfall, with nearly €2 million presumed to need funding from the Cabildo to cover the differences.
The Construction Plans
Work on the Ciudad Deportiva was officially acknowledged to commence in January 2023 following the signing of the site plan and the allocation of an additional €3 million from the Higher Sports Council. The renovation strategy involves demolishing existing sports facilities, including the athletic track and soccer field, and excavating for new installations utilizing some of the dug-up material for lateral fill.
Future enhancements may include the addition of swimming pools and other sports facilities, broadening the complex’s offerings to accommodate diverse athletic needs.
Architectural Features and Layout
The newly designed complex will not only feature a new athletic track and soccer pitch but will also house a multi-purpose building. This facility is expected to contain indoor athletic modules, administrative offices, changing rooms, restrooms, meeting rooms, classrooms, and seating areas, all contributing to an inviting and versatile sporting environment for both professionals and amateurs.
Conclusion
Despite the challenges currently facing the Ciudad Deportiva de Antigua project, including budgetary overruns and construction delays, local authorities remain committed to revitalizing this essential community hub. As construction moves forward, there is hope that these facilities will eventually satisfy the athletic needs of the community for years to come, fostering a culture of physical activity and healthy living.
