Barcelona City Council has announced plans to create a new civic axis linking the Raval district directly to the sea, a key part of its urban strategy for Ciutat Vella until 2035. This significant urban development aims to revitalise one of the city's most densely populated areas, improving connectivity and public spaces.
Connecting Raval to the Sea
This ambitious project will establish a route from Plaça de la Universitat to the Columbus Monument. It will follow Carrer de Joaquim Costa and Rambla del Raval, extending to Avinguda de Drassanes, according to the Ajuntament. Ciutat Vella Commissioner Joan Pera stated that the plan revives a proposal from former Mayor Pasqual Maragall, known as the "Seminari-Liceu axis". Mr Pera added, "We are extending it to the sea, to bring Raval to the sea." This connection seeks to improve pedestrian flow and integrate the district more fully with the city's waterfront, a popular area for both residents and tourists.
The council presented its full urban strategy for Ciutat Vella, aiming to enhance public spaces and support daily life for residents. Mr Pera emphasised the goal to guarantee "the right to stay and live with quality" in the district. This initiative addresses the evolving needs of Ciutat Vella, home to approximately 100,000 residents. Many of these residents, including a significant expat community, rely on these public spaces for daily activities and social interaction. The plan seeks to make the district more liveable and accessible.
Ciutat Vella's Evolving Needs
This strategy outlines around 50 actions over the next decade. Some initiatives will require changes to current urban planning, which officials describe as "outdated". The existing planning dates back to the 1980s and 1990s. During that period, the focus was on recovering neighbourhoods and creating new facilities and services after decades of neglect. However, Ciutat Vella's reality and needs have changed significantly since then. The district now faces challenges such as an aging housing stock, the need for more green spaces, and balancing tourism with local life.
The plan identifies 15 horizontal and seven vertical axes, alongside 30 areas for revitalisation and social activity. Mr Pera explained the goal is "to network Ciutat Vella with Ciutat Vella and with the rest of the city", as reported by Agència Catalana de Notícies (ACN). This approach aims to create a more cohesive urban fabric, improving connections within the district and with other parts of Barcelona. For international residents, these improvements can mean better access to services, enhanced public safety, and a more pleasant living environment.
Future Reforms and Housing
Beyond the Raval connection, other vertical axes include one from Portal de l’Àngel, through Carrers del Bisbe and Ciutat, to Carrer Regomir, linking Passeig de Gràcia to the sea. Another axis aims to improve accessibility to Parc de la Ciutadella and La Rambla, a major tourist attraction and cultural landmark. These projects will enhance connectivity across the entire Ciutat Vella district, benefiting both daily commuters and visitors exploring the city.
Planned reforms also include works on Carrer de Pepe Rubianes and Plaça d’Antoni Genescà i Corominas. The strategy also covers the reform of the Antic Hospital de la Santa Creu, a historic building with significant cultural importance, and the Can 60 project. New sports facilities in Raval Sud are also part of the plan. Additionally, the council plans to connect Carrer de Wellington with Parc de la Ciutadella. This new planning will also boost housing in Ciutat Vella by rehabilitating its aging housing stock, a critical issue for many residents struggling with housing quality.
The Barcelona City Council's strategy aims to reshape Ciutat Vella's urban fabric over the next decade. It seeks to create a more connected and liveable district for its residents, addressing long-standing urban challenges and promoting a higher quality of life. The full details of the municipal proposal are available on the Ajuntament's website. This long-term vision signals a significant commitment to the district's future.
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Originally published by Tot Barcelona. Read original article.
