Bærum, Norway – A contentious decision too fund a new 997 million NOK stadium for Stabæk Football at Nadderud has come under renewed scrutiny as Bærum municipality faces notable budget cuts imposed by the national government.
The stadium project, approved after a closely contested vote in the municipal council on November 23, 2023, saw the Right party rely on strict party discipline to secure a majority. The final vote was 33-32 in favor of the project. Prior to approval, the stadium’s projected cost had escalated repeatedly, initially estimated at around 700 million NOK. the decision followed a debate in the last group meeting of the Right party, where concerns about the escalating costs were voiced.
Now, with the central government reducing tax revenues allocated to Bærum, the municipality is grappling with a billion NOK cut in funding. This has led to increased pressure on all municipal projects, including Nadderud, with critics arguing that funds could have been better allocated to schools, kindergartens, volunteer organizations, and welfare services.
The Nadderud stadium project has become a focal point in budget discussions,with opponents frequently citing it as an example of potentially misallocated resources.Stabæk Football, as the primary beneficiary, faces increased public expectation to deliver sporting success and justify the investment. The club currently competes in the OBOS-ligaen,the second tier of Norwegian football,after being relegated from the Eliteserien in 2023.
the stadium is intended to accommodate approximately 13,500 spectators and will include modern facilities for both players and fans. Construction began in early 2024, with completion currently slated for the summer of 2025. The project is being managed by Bærum Kommune in collaboration with Stabæk Football and local construction firm, veidekke ASA.
Stabæk’s performance in the coming seasons will be crucial in mitigating public criticism and demonstrating the value of the new stadium to the Bærum community. The club’s leadership, including Chairman Erik Løken, has acknowledged the responsibility and pledged to build a competitive team.
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