Real Madrid get to work on Santiago Bernabeu redevelopment as building continues – but capacity will be reduced by one – The Sun

REAL MADRID are continuing to work on their Estadio Santiago Bernabeu redevelopment after being given the approval from the city's council – but the update will reduce the capacity by one.

Los Blancos were granted permission in March to begin the major construction operation which will cost £500million.

They originally unveiled their ambitious new proposal for the famous venue more than five years ago with plans to new build a metallic shell, and a hotel on site.

A 360-degree screen, retractable roof and refurbished private boxes were all part of the revamp plan.

The Bernabeu's makeover could take as long as five years to complete but the club have officially stated the date of completion to be October 2022.

But the changes to the ground will result in the new-look Bernabeu's capacity taking a hit from 80,243…to 80,242.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said in 2016: “With this agreement, we will start a process of modernisation and transformation that will convert the stadium into an avant-garde architectural icon.

“This stadium will act as an economic and touristic invigorator and will contribute to strengthening the image of our city.”

There are currently no matches going on at the Bernabeu – home of Real Madrid since 1947 – with LaLiga and the Champions League currently suspended.

Spain is on lockdown as Covid-19 ravages the country with more than 18,000 deaths and 172,000 confirmed cases.

Among those to have died from the illness is Lorenzo Sanz, Real's former club president who delivered two Champions League titles during his time at the helm at the turn of the century.

Only the United States and Italy have seen more people lose their life as a result of the virus.

And with the stadium not needed to stage any Real games, the club have opened up the ground to help local hospitals.

Medical supplies donated to health workers will be stored in the LaLiga giants' home as part of a partnership with the Spanish sports ministry.

In addition, Real are to assist in passing on donations made to hospitals by companies and business leaders.

A statement read: "The Santiago Bernabeu will offer a space that is equipped to store the donations of medical supplies required in the fight against this pandemic.

"All of the stored supplies will be passed on to the Spanish health authorities, under the authority of the Spanish government, so that the resources [that are] so necessary in the current health emergency are deployed in the best and most efficient manner.

"In addition, Real Madrid will provide a facility for organisations and businesses, particularly those belonging to the sports sector, to leave money or material donations that they wish to make to the Ministry of Health."

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