A new phase of major engineering works on the Trambesòs network is set to cause significant Barcelona tram works disruption around the Plaça de les Glòries area. Consequently, changes are expected to remain in place until the spring of 2027. The project involves rerouting tram lines and upgrading the surrounding public space. Therefore, it will lead to permanent road closures and long-term traffic diversions.
According to Barcelona City Council, the works are necessary to simplify the current tram layout. In addition, they will improve pedestrian connectivity between the centre of the square, Gran Via, and Avinguda Diagonal. The project has a total budget of over €32 million. It will see a new tram platform and catenary system installed along Diagonal.
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Home » Barcelona Tram Works Disruption: Major Glòries Traffic Changes Until 2027
Barcelona Tram Works Disruption: Key Road Closures
The most immediate impact for drivers is the permanent closure of Carrer de la Ciutat de Granada. This closure applies to general traffic between the Gran Via and Avinguda Diagonal. This street will now be dedicated exclusively to the tram. However, access to the Glòries shopping centre car park will be maintained.
Furthermore, from 16 January, traffic on the sea-facing side of Avinguda Diagonal will be reduced. It will go from three lanes to just one between Carrer de la Ciutat de Granada and Carrer de Badajoz. This reduction will affect both private vehicles and public transport. For instance, buses will have to share the single remaining lane. It represents another major transport disruption affecting Barcelona commuters, with multiple projects underway. Meanwhile, an alternative route via Carrer de Badajoz will be facilitated.
Cyclists will also face changes, with the current cycle lane on Diagonal affected. The council plans to install a temporary 2.2-metre-wide bidirectional cycle lane. This lane will be on the road surface and protected from traffic by concrete barriers.
Barcelona Tram Works Disruption: Project Goals
The primary goal of the works is to reroute the T5 and T6 tram lines. They will run along Diagonal into Plaça de les Glòries, following the same path as the T4 line. This will simplify the complex web of tracks currently in the square. The project also includes duplicating the existing single tram track on Gran Via. This duplication will be between Carrer de la Ciutat de Granada and Rambla de Poblenou. These upgrades are essential to cope with the record usage of Barcelona’s public transport system.
These changes are part of the final urbanisation phase for the area. They follow the earlier project to move the main road traffic on Gran Via into underground tunnels. As detailed in an official announcement, the works are scheduled for completion in the spring of 2027. During periods of complete tram line closure, an alternative bus service will be provided.
Barcelona Tram Works Disruption: Cost and Funding
The extensive project has a total budget of €32.54 million. The works are being carried out jointly by Barcelona City Council and the Metropolitan Transport Authority (ATM). The City Council is financing the majority of the cost. It is contributing €23.3 million for the urbanisation and route changes. The remaining €9.2 million covers the cost of duplicating the tram tracks on Gran Via. This portion will be funded by the Generalitat de Catalunya via the ATM. This is just another major public transport infrastructure investment in Barcelona. It is aimed at improving mobility across the city.
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