Roma President James Pallotta insists the club’s new stadium will be a boost for the entire city, not just his club.
The Giallorossi yesterday cleared a significant hurdle on the path to building their own ground, when the local council approved plans for construction to begin.
The club must still gain approval from the Regione Lazio, but the Lupi’s President has talked up the benefits of the new ground.
Roma President James Pallotta insists the club’s new stadium will be a boost for the entire city, not just his club.
The Giallorossi yesterday cleared a significant hurdle on the path to building their own ground, when the local council approved plans for construction to begin.
The club must still gain approval from the Regione Lazio, but the Lupi’s President has talked up the benefits of the new ground.
“It’s been a long journey,” Pallotta told Roma Radio.
“That’s my first thought. My second thought is that we’re halfway there, and my third is for those who voted against, because I read so many things that aren’t true and I want everyone to be on our side.
“There will be no construction costs for the city of Rome. I’ve read many comments which aren’t entirely clear, all costs are aimed at creating 3,000 jobs.
“Together with the work on the airport, this will be valuable for Rome. The stadium will be an economic shot in the arm for the entire city.
“Those who are opposed to the project haven’t thought about how it will benefit the city. When I return to the city with [Mark] Pannes I will personally explain the benefits.
“The project has been well researched and we’re confident that it will be a good thing.”
The President wasn’t ingnoring the benefits to the Giallorossi however, and says the Roma faithful will look forward to welcoming the world’s best to the new ground.
“Roma fans will be proud to have a new stadium, and to compete against the best teams in the world in that new stadium.
“There’s talk of revenue, but that’s not the most important part and any revenue will be invested in the team.
“We want to have a stadium which will be safer to bring families to, it will be a key tourist destination in Rome.”