It has been decided that a new stadium in the city of Bat Yam will not operate on Shabbos and Yomim Tovim. It is reported that the head of the Shas Moetzas Gedolei Hatorah HaGaon HaRav Shalom Cohen Shlita sent a letter specifically stating the new stadium must not operate on Shabbos.

According to a Kikar Shabbos News report, Rav Cohen sent a letter to Deputy Mayor Refael Barnez and Shas representatives on the city council. The rav directed them that their support in the vote for the stadium must be contingent on agreement the stadium would remain closed on the holy days. Rav Cohen explained that without such a commitment from City Hall, Shas would not be able to support the stadium. The rav was careful to specify the closure applies to the entire stadium complex, including all restaurants and other facilities.

As a result of Rav Cohen’s instructions, the NIS 800 million project has been approved by the Bat Yam City Council. The stadium will hold 30,000 seats and it will be part of an entertainment complex that will include entertainment and shopping, all to remain closed on the holy days.

The new complex will be constructed on Derech Menachem Begin in the city.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)