Barcelona's municipal government has given initial approval for a 20-storey office tower in Sants, reviving a long-stalled urban development plan. This project will transform a vacant site on Avenida de Josep Tarradellas, near Sants Station, into a new landmark. The approval came in late January 2026, moving the proposal into its public exhibition phase.
The proposed tower will reach 77 metres in height, featuring 19 floors plus a technical attic. It will stand at the corner of Carrer de Tarragona and Carrer del Consell de Cent, directly opposite the popular Joan Miró Park. This prominent location aims to establish the building as a new visual reference point along this key urban axis. Many residents consider this stretch Barcelona's "fifth avenue" due to its importance.
The development also includes a second building, up to seven storeys tall, on another plot within the same block. Additionally, smaller annexes will help integrate the entire complex with its existing surroundings. In total, the project plans for over 6,000 square metres of space. This area will primarily house offices, alongside retail units on the ground floor.
Decades of Urban Paralysis
The developer, Núñez i Navarro, is driving this operation. Its initial approval by the municipal government marks a significant step. This breakthrough follows decades of urban paralysis, characterised by judicial disputes and planning difficulties. The original project formed part of a broader transformation. Former Mayor Pasqual Maragall initiated this vision in the years leading up to the 1992 Olympic Games. He aimed to strengthen this corridor as a grand entrance to the city. Maragall's initial plan envisioned four large towers along this axis. Over time, three of these towers were constructed. However, the fourth, now being revived, remained unbuilt for nearly four decades. It became one of the city's longest-pending urban projects.
Strategic Location and Historical Context
The site, located within a block bordered by Carrer de Tarragona, Carrer del Consell de Cent, Carrer de Béjar, and Carrer de Sant Nicolau, is strategically important. It offers excellent connectivity to the metro, bus, and long-distance trains. This makes it a prime location for new business activity. The current proposal seeks to reinforce this area as a strong urban facade. This will create a powerful impression for visitors arriving in Barcelona via Sants Station, the city's main railway hub. The Sants district itself is a bustling area, home to many residents and businesses. It serves as a critical transport interchange for both local commuters and international travellers.
Economic Impact and Urban Regeneration
The new office spaces and ground-floor retail units will bring new economic activity to the district. This development will also fill a long-standing urban void. For years, the two vacant plots have been a visible scar, representing urban neglect from the pre-Olympic era. Their transformation signifies a renewed commitment to urban regeneration in a high-profile location. The "fifth avenue" designation highlights the corridor's perceived importance. It connects major transport hubs and commercial areas. This project aims to elevate its status further.
Next Steps for the Project
Currently, the project is in its public exhibition phase. This allows residents and stakeholders to review the plans before final approval. While no specific date exists for the start of construction, the administrative progress marks a clear turning point. What was once a forgotten plot now begins to take shape. This transformation will be one of the most visible urban changes in the Sants area over the coming years. It promises to reshape a key part of Barcelona's urban landscape.
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Originally published by 20 Minutos Barcelona. Read original article.
