The Badalona homeless settlement clearance under the C-31 bridge is now in its final phase. After five weeks of precarious living conditions, a concerted effort by the Generalitat’s Department of Social Rights and municipal services has rehoused 16 individuals. This significant reduction highlights the pressures from Catalonia’s worsening housing crisis, which severely affects the most vulnerable.
Meanwhile, the operation, carried out with local social entities, marks a pivotal moment for the site. According to sources, only around 15 people now remain. Therefore, places in Generalitat facilities in other towns have reportedly been secured for those still at the bridge.
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Home » Badalona Homeless Settlement: Clearance Nears End as 16 Rehoused
Badalona Homeless Settlement Clearance: Complex Logistics
While the rehousing numbers are promising, the logistical reality is complex. Carles Sagués, spokesperson for Badalona Acull, explained that the Badalona homeless settlement clearance is not merely about moving people. Many residents work informally collecting scrap metal. Consequently, they are reluctant to leave without secure storage for their carts and tools.
“It is very difficult to identify everyone, explain the situation to them, where they can go… all that cannot be done in five minutes and by putting people in a line.”Carles Sagués, Spokesperson for Badalona Acull
Sagués noted that an agreement was eventually reached for social entities to store these materials. This removed a significant barrier to relocation. However, the remaining individuals present greater challenges. Some suffer from mental health issues or are long-term rough sleepers. In addition, other local initiatives are exploring innovative housing alternatives in Badalona to address long-term needs.
Clean-up and Rising Local Tensions
Municipal workers have already begun cleaning operations at the site. They are removing empty tents with assistance from some settlers. If current forecasts hold, the camp could be fully cleared by the end of the week.
The clearance comes amidst rising frustration from local residents. On Thursday, approximately 100 neighbours from the Sant Roc district blocked Avenida Marquès de Montroig. They protested against what they describe as growing insecurity linked to the settlement. The Associació Veïnal del Remei has echoed these concerns, reporting that residents feel increasingly unsafe.
Sagués acknowledged that coexistence had deteriorated over the past month. He admitted to recent incidents, though he emphasised they were relatively minor given the circumstances.
A Temporary Solution to a Persistent Crisis
Questions remain regarding the long-term future of those being moved. The current housing solution is temporary, with stays expected to conclude throughout February. The Department of Social Rights has stated that while accommodation is time-limited, social accompaniment and support for administrative and labour integration will continue.
Once the Generalitat’s intervention concludes, cases will be referred back to Badalona City Council. However, advocates warn that clearing the bridge does not solve the underlying crisis. As Sagués noted, once the tents are gone, the city remains with its perennial issue of homelessness. Over 100 people were counted sleeping rough in Badalona as of May 2025. This issue reflects the widespread housing vulnerability in the metropolitan area. For further context on national homelessness strategies, see the UK government’s homelessness strategy.
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