Barcelona’s Avinguda de Gaudí will have temporary terrace closures this summer as the city prepares for Pope Leo XIV’s visit to the Sagrada Família and the Tour de France Grand Départ. The measures are meant to manage crowds and keep public spaces safe during two events expected to bring large numbers of visitors to the city.
Restaurateurs near the Sagrada Família say they are unhappy with the plan. Loreto Almirall, president of the Gaudí Shopping association, said the sector understands the importance of hosting major events, but warned that bars and restaurants on Avinguda de Gaudí face very significant restrictions, especially because many depend on outdoor seating.
The City Council has not yet set out the full dates or length of the closures, but terraces will be removed on 2 July, when Tour de France cyclists will parade down Avinguda de Gaudí for the team presentation. Jordi Guerrero, chief superintendent of the Guàrdia Urbana’s Coordination Division, said the closures are mainly for security reasons, to clear space for evacuation if needed and to help pedestrians move more easily.
Business owners are also asking for compensation. The Gaudí Shopping association wants the terrace tax waived for the periods when terraces cannot operate, and says the council has given too little information for businesses to plan properly. Almirall said many small premises rely on their terraces for turnover, so the loss could be significant.
City Council sources told betevé they will study the compensation request, but said it is too early to give a final answer. After both events, the council plans to assess the financial impact on affected businesses and then try to reach an agreement on compensation for documented losses.
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Originally published by betevé. Read original article.
