Barcelona City Council has announced a major €22 million investment plan to revitalise the city’s famed Avinguda del Paral·lel, aiming to restore its historic reputation as a bustling cultural artery. The initiative, dubbed ‘Millorem el Paral·lel’ (Let’s Improve Paral·lel), will be rolled out between now and 2028, combining urban upgrades with cultural and commercial projects to transform the avenue connecting the Poble Sec, Raval, and Sant Antoni neighbourhoods.
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More than a decade ago, former mayor Xavier Trias initiated a comprehensive reform, but the subsequent administration of Ada Colau partially halted it. The current government, led by Mayor Jaume Collboni, now seeks to complete the unfinished transformation, particularly at the southern end between Ronda de Sant Pau and Drassanes.
“We will work on measures to revitalise culture and community value, create economic and social synergies, and improve urban connectivity,” stated Raquel Gil, the councillor for the Sants-Montjuïc district. The project, born from proposals by neighbourhood associations, aims to create a “Barcelona Broadway” that respects and integrates the needs of local residents.
A Three-Pronged Approach
The investment is structured around three core pillars. The largest share, €11.6 million, will improve public space. This includes significant upgrades to public lighting, the installation of new Christmas lights, and the renovation of pavements and squares. These works are part of the city’s wider Pla Endreça (Clean-up Plan). They will also introduce reinforced surveillance, especially in areas like the Parc de les Tres Xemeneies, to curb anti-social behaviour and promote more community and sports activities. Barna.News has previously covered the park’s redevelopment in its report.
The second pillar focuses on cultural and civic dynamism, with a budget of €10.6 million. This funding primarily targets the long-awaited renovation of the historic Teatre Arnau, a former variety hall slated to become a central cultural facility by 2027. The plan also aims to integrate Paral·lel into major city-wide events like the Three Kings’ Parade, Sant Jordi, and La Mercè festivals, solidifying its place in Barcelona’s cultural brand. Furthermore, the plan will promote activities at other key venues, such as the iconic El Molino cabaret.
Finally, €345,000 will promote artistic activities, commerce, and restaurants. A key initiative involves creating a unique “Paral·lel brand” to unify its identity. Artistic interventions on shop blinds and building facades will tell stories linked to the avenue’s vibrant past. Additionally, the city will provide specific support to businesses on Carrer de Vila i Vilà, which have suffered during long-term public works.
Community Voices and Outlook
While the city council has presented an ambitious vision, local community groups remain cautiously optimistic, mindful of past unfulfilled commitments. Josep Guzmán, treasurer of the Poble Sec Entities Coordinator, told El País that residents are hoping for “feasible measures” rather than “grand promises.”
“Paral·lel must belong to the residents,” he stressed.
Councillor Gil addressed these concerns, stating that the new plan builds upon, rather than discards, previous work. “The objective is for Paral·lel to be better than it is now,” she said. Manel Tort, president of the Poble Sec Merchants’ Association, added, “Today we have the commitment to finish Paral·lel.”
The revitalisation of Paral·lel is part of a broader wave of urban regeneration in the area. It complements the ambitious renovation of the nearby Montjuïc Fairgrounds and the planned overhaul of Plaça d’Espanya. With a clear timeline and dedicated budget, the city hopes this latest effort will finally allow one of Barcelona’s most iconic avenues to shine once again.
