Jerusalem Housing Plan Threatens Beit Shemesh Football Club's Training Grounds
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
A new housing development plan in Jerusalem's Beit Vagan neighborhood threatens to reduce the Beitar Jerusalem football club's training grounds from three pitches to one. Deputy Mayor Yossi Havilio opposes the plan, citing a lack of alternative facilities and potential harm to the club and other Jerusalem football teams. The plan, which includes over 1,600 housing units, is set for discussion by the District Planning Committee next week.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- A Jerusalem housing plan could reduce Beitar Jerusalem's football training grounds from three pitches to one.
- The proposed development includes 1,651 housing units and commercial areas in Beit Vagan.
- Deputy Mayor Yossi Havilio stated that approving the plan would destroy the Beitar Jerusalem association.
- Jerusalem faces a shortage of football pitches, according to Havilio.
- The District Planning Committee will discuss the plan next week.
A proposed housing development in Jerusalem's Beit Vagan neighborhood could significantly reduce the training facilities for the Beitar Jerusalem football club. The plan, known as "Emek Zion New Quarter," is being advanced by the Israel Land Authority and includes the construction of 1,651 housing units, commercial and employment areas, and additional construction space for Shaare Zedek Medical Center.
Currently, Beitar Jerusalem's training complex features three pitches used by the senior team, children's and youth departments, and for youth matches. The proposed plan would leave only one grass pitch for youth training, with an additional non-standard pitch planned on the roof of a commercial building half a kilometer away.
Yossi Havilio, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem and holder of the Sports portfolio, expressed strong opposition to the plan, stating, "We must not let money win over sports. Approving the plan will destroy the Beitar Jerusalem association." He emphasized Jerusalem's existing shortage of football pitches and argued that the proposed changes would severely harm the club and other football teams in the city.
The plan is scheduled for discussion by the District Planning Committee next week. Havilio urged against its advancement, reiterating that financial interests should not supersede the needs of sports.
