The procedure for the stadium expansion development plan can now move to the next stage. The common goal of all parties involved remains a future stadium operation with 40,500 visitors.

“The great sporting successes of 1. FC Union Berlin radiate far beyond the city limits. Berlin's top flight club deserve a stadium fit for the top flight, where international opponents can be hosted in a proper setting. Through good discussions with Union, we have found a viable compromise for the traffic concept. This allows the planning for the stadium and its implementation to continue. The expansion of the stadium capacity to the originally targeted number is therefore still on the table. We will continue to engage in discussions,” explained Ute Bonde, Senator for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection and Environment.

“Union needs a Bundesliga-capable stadium, that is beyond question. Berlin wants to continue supporting its Bundesliga team in its self-financed stadium expansion, with the goal of enabling more Union fans to attend. All parties in the responsible Senate administrations recognise the importance of the club having taken a significant step towards a viable compromise. With the confirmation of this proposal, the development plan process can now proceed swiftly,” added Christian Gaebler, Senator for Urban Development, Building and Housing.

“I am pleased with the Senate's quick and positive response to our proposal. The preliminary waiver of a larger capacity is painful, but we must make rapid progress with the expansion to remain competitive. Our goal remains an Alte Försterei with 40,500 visitors, even if we only achieve this at a later stage,” said Dirk Zingler, President of 1. FC Union Berlin.