The Barcelona City Council has given its initial approval to a modification of the urban plan for the Casetes d’Encarnació site in Gràcia. Consequently, the revised proposal increases the size of the planned public square by 100 square metres. This decision is driven primarily by the need to better protect the site’s bicentennial Encarnació holm oak.
Encarnació Holm Oak Protection: Giving Nature Space to Breathe
The adjustment to the urban planning scheme aims to ensure the long-term survival of the historic tree. Therefore, it requires ample root space and exposure to thrive amidst the dense urban fabric of the district. According to the City Council, the decision to construct a larger square will allow the conservation of the holm oak in significantly better conditions.
Your browser does not support the video tag.Home » Encarnació Holm Oak: Gràcia Square Extended for Tree Safeguarding
The tree, classified as a Tree of Local Interest, sits at the heart of the Casetes d’Encarnació area. By expanding the public space surrounding it, the city aims to buffer the specimen from nearby residential structures and infrastructure.
A Symbol of Neighbourhood Resilience
The Encarnació holm oak has become far more than just a botanical asset. Meanwhile, it is widely regarded as a symbol of the Gràcia neighbourhood. The tree was famously saved from destruction thanks to intense neighbourhood mobilization. Local residents campaigned vigorously to prevent development that would have threatened the 200-year-old specimen and the historic cottages on the site.
This latest administrative step reinforces the victory of those community efforts. In addition, it cements the tree’s status as a protected landmark within a newly configured public space. This space is designed to honour both local heritage and environmental needs, similar to a similar urban remodelling project in Sant Andreu.
Get all of the news delivered to your phone via our WhatsApp Broadcast Channel .
