A report by Morocco's Progressive Democratic Youth Movement, Tangier branch, has highlighted several concerns regarding the demolition and reconstruction of the Al-Harrach sports facility in Tangier. The report, titled "Al-Harrach Stadium in Tangier: Between World Cup Qualification and the Right to Local Sports," was prepared based on tender documents and field observations. It questions the project's contractual reference, transparency, and guarantees for continued access for local children and youth.
The report notes that demolition and excavation work began on November 6, 2026, without a project information board or prior notification to sports associations using the facility. This has raised questions about the project's supervision, contractor, total cost, and legal basis. The report also found discrepancies between contractual documents and the announced project, particularly regarding the project's location and scope.
The report highlights the absence of a clear contractual reference for the Al-Harrach stadium project, with the facility not mentioned in relevant documents. This has led to concerns that the project may be linked to a separate, unpublished contract or the Integra sports complex project. The movement is demanding disclosure of the project's contract number, cost, contractor, and completion deadlines.
The report also raises concerns about the project's impact on local residents, particularly the potential loss of a community sports facility for over 500 children and youth. The report notes that the project's timelines and technical requirements may delay the facility's reopening until after the 2030 World Cup. This could leave local sports associations without access to a free, nearby facility.
The report questions the future management of the facility and whether it will remain open to local residents. It notes that tender documents do not guarantee free access for local associations or allocate specific time slots for community use. The movement fears that the facility may become a restricted, paid-for space, which it describes as "masked privatization."
Environmental and technical concerns have also been raised, including the disposal of demolition waste and the project's water usage. The report notes that contractual documents require the removal of old equipment and waste, but it is unclear where this material will be deposited or who will oversee the process.
Finally, the report highlights errors and inconsistencies in contractual documents, including references to outdated regulations and incorrect project specifications. While these errors do not necessarily invalidate the contract, they raise questions about the project's management and oversight.
Key points
- The report calls for greater transparency and community involvement in the project's management.
- The project's impact on local residents and sports associations is a major concern.
- The report highlights the need for clear contractual references and guarantees for community access to the facility.
