Poble-sec transformation plans promise a significant injection of public housing and green space for the historic Barcelona neighbourhood.

The ambitious urban development project, approved by the city’s governing commission, aims to create a new metropolitan hub around Montjuïc mountain.

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Furthermore, it seeks to consolidate the area as a green lung and a centre for major cultural and sporting events.

Poble-sec Transformation Creates New Community Hub

The proposal organises three closed blocks next to the existing Plaça del Univers. Consequently, it generates a new central, open space of 2,400 square metres and an 800-square-metre plaza. These areas will act as meeting points and connectors for the new housing and facilities. The project drives a new centrality of amenities, providing 18,400 square metres of floor space for educational, health, social care, sports, socio-cultural, and administrative uses.

Specific new facilities include a primary care centre with access from Carrer de Lleida and the new plaza. Additionally, the plan involves expanding the Espai Bombers fire station, enlarging the playground at the Mossèn Jacint Verdaguer school, and repurposing Pavilion 2 for a multi-sports hall. The local police vehicle depot will also be relocated to one of the housing blocks.

Green Spaces and Civic Connections Enhanced

Beyond buildings and equipment, the Poble-sec transformation will incorporate 6,858 square metres of new green spaces. These areas will feature abundant vegetation, shade, urban furniture, children’s play areas, and seating zones. Moreover, they are designed with universal accessibility and climate comfort in mind. The plan also includes a new transversal civic route connecting Carrer de Lleida with the extension of Carrer de la Guàrdia Urbana.

The urban planning details for the new residential fabric will be explained to Poble-sec residents in an information session on Thursday, 11 December. This community engagement is a key part of the process. The city’s commitment to green infrastructure is part of a wider strategy, as seen in the recent city-wide green wall overhaul.

Historic Palaces and Fira Connection Revitalised

In a related move, the governing commission also approved a Special Urban and Urban Improvement Plan (PEUMU). This plan focuses on rehabilitating the Alfonso XIII and Victòria Eugènia palaces, along with plans derived from the Dress Pavilion and the Multifunctional Pavilion. The proposal includes improving accessibility and the quality of open spaces. It also involves organising the subsoil for the future L2 metro station and enhancing connections between pavilions.

By incorporating new cultural and tertiary uses, the PEUMU strengthens the connection with the Fira de Barcelona. Therefore, it helps consolidate Montjuïc as a reference cultural and heritage centre for the city. This focus on cultural infrastructure aligns with broader efforts to redefine the city’s cultural and tourism offerings. According to a report in La Vanguardia, the combined projects represent a major step in reimagining this iconic part of Barcelona.

The comprehensive Poble-sec transformation addresses housing, community facilities, and environmental quality simultaneously. This holistic approach aims to create a more liveable, connected, and sustainable neighbourhood for its residents. The upcoming community session will be crucial for refining the final plans based on local feedback.

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