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Benidorm Bullring Set for €15m Transformation into Cultural and Youth ‘Open Arena’

 

Benidorm / 9 April 226

 

The town’s bullring is set to be transformed into a major cultural, leisure and youth hub under a €15 million regeneration project confirmed by Benidorm City Council.

 

The scheme, known as the “Benidorm Open Arena”, will see the ageing structure and its surrounding area redeveloped into a modern multi-purpose public space, combining culture, community use and youth facilities. The proposal is due to be presented at an extraordinary plenary session as the council prepares to launch the tender process.

 

€15 Million Investment with EU Support

The project has secured €6.4 million in funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Integrated Action Plans for Local Entities (EDIL), with the remaining investment covered by municipal resources.

 

Mayor Toni Pérez described the initiative as “an ambitious project” that will deliver new spaces for culture, knowledge, entertainment and community life, while also improving connections between key neighbourhoods.

 

Transforming a Historic Space

At the heart of the project is the full rehabilitation of the bullring, which will be converted into a flexible venue capable of hosting concerts, cultural performances, sporting events and community activities. The redevelopment reflects a wider trend in Spain of repurposing traditional venues for modern public use.

 

Three-Part Regeneration Plan

The “Benidorm Open Arena” will be delivered through three key elements:

Arena Live: Transformation of the bullring into a multifunctional cultural, social and sporting venue

Arena Joven: Creation of a modern, inclusive youth centre focused on training, leisure and participation

 

Arena Meeting: Urban regeneration works to improve connectivity between Els Tolls, Foietes-Colonia Madrid and the town centre via l’Aigüera

 

These improvements aim to better integrate the site into the city while enhancing accessibility between densely populated districts.

 

Technical Complexity and Delivery

Due to the current condition of the structure — including potential issues such as corrosion,

internal cracking and deterioration — the council will adopt a combined design-and-build tender process. This approach allows construction solutions to be adapted as work progresses, ensuring safety, efficiency and reduced financial risk.

 

Officials say this method is essential given the technical uncertainty involved, as many structural issues can only be fully identified during the rehabilitation process.

 

Governance and Additional Measures

In line with EU funding requirements, a fraud risk self-assessment committee has been established to oversee the correct management of funds and ensure transparency throughout the project.

 

Alongside the Open Arena plans, the same plenary session will also address a new regulated parking contract, including blue zone management, towing services and the introduction of green and orange parking zones.

 

A Strategic Step for the City

The redevelopment is being positioned as a key investment in Benidorm’s future, helping to diversify the town beyond tourism by strengthening cultural infrastructure, supporting young people and improving urban connectivity.

 

Key Facts

• Total investment: €15 million
• ERDF funding: €6.4 million
• Transformation of Benidorm bullring
• New cultural, events and sports venue
• Creation of a youth centre
• Improved connectivity between neighbourhoods