Italy: Ongoing debates over Inter and Milan’s new stadium

Italy: Ongoing debates over Inter and Milan’s new stadiumThe future of San Siro and the construction of a new stadium nearby continue to stir debate. Discussions focus on the stadium’s design, its impact on Inter and Milan, and, most importantly, its effects on the surrounding area.

The main controversy revolves around the amount and quality of green spaces in the San Siro area after the construction of the new stadium and the near-total demolition of the Meazza. Specifically, concerns arise over the proportion of permeable green spaces—those allowing water to seep into the ground, making them environmentally valuable—potentially being smaller than initially promised. This issue stems from the feasibility study presented by Inter and Milan, which was made public by Palazzo Marino along with the resolution to begin collecting bids from potential buyers of the Meazza stadium and surrounding land.

The document states that designers have met the goal of keeping at least 50% of the area as green space, in line with city council requirements following public debates on the stadium. Including paved pathways and public spaces connected to green areas, this percentage increases to 52.67%. Regarding permeable greenery—highlighted in Milan’s urban planning guidelines (Pgt)—the post-project surface area would exceed the current 50,000 m² (essentially the existing Captains’ Park), thereby complying with construction regulations.

Detailed data indicate that on-ground greenery (permeable and not merely decorative) would cover 51,984 m², or 18.51% of the total site. This means less than one-fifth of San Siro would be truly green, and its area would only slightly surpass the current level of permeable land. Furthermore, when comparing the green space map with the new underground parking plans set to replace the Meazza, it appears that some of this on-ground greenery will be directly above parking structures.