Girona’s City Council has announced the commencement of emergency works to reinforce the structural integrity of Plaça de Catalunya. This essential intervention, addressing underlying issues with the square’s supporting structure, is scheduled to begin the week of February 20th and is expected to continue until June 2026.
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The need for these urgent repairs stems from the detection of approximately 100 rusted beams, out of a total of 340, supporting the entire plaza. Reports indicate that the oxidation of iron within these beams, caused by time and weather exposure, has compromised the stability of the public space. Recent damage from ‘temporal Harry’ has reportedly accelerated the rate of deterioration, prompting swift action from local authorities, according to Diari Catalunya.
Safety and Scope of the Works
Despite the urgency of the situation, city officials have reassured the public that Plaça de Catalunya remains safe for both pedestrians and vehicles. These emergency works serve as a preventive measure to halt further degradation and ensure the long-term stability of the structure. The Ajuntament de Girona (City Council) emphasizes that the intervention aims to avoid more serious problems developing in the future.
The remedial work will involve covering the damaged parts of the beams with metal plates, effectively redistributing the weight and reinforcing the compromised sections. This approach aims to provide a robust and durable solution to the problem. The Cadena SER reports that the urgency of the intervention reflects the critical role these beams play in maintaining the square’s structural integrity.
Traffic and Transport Disruptions
While the works are underway, traffic disruptions are expected to be minimal. However, a portion of the platform will be occupied for material storage and to facilitate the construction process. More significantly, the L6 urban bus line will modify its route starting February 23, 2026. Instead of crossing Plaça de Catalunya, the bus will circulate via Pont de l’Areny, Carrer d’Ultònia, and Plaça de Calvet i Rubalcaba, as reported by El Gerió Digital.
Cost and Future Plans
The estimated cost of these emergency works is significant, ranging from 300,000 to 450,000 euros. One report indicates an adjudication of 375,000 euros to Dapecsa for the repair work, according to Diari de Catalunya. These figures highlight the scale of the intervention required to safeguard the structure.
In addition to the immediate repairs, the City Council is also planning for the long-term future of Plaça de Catalunya. Concurrently with the emergency repairs, the City Council plans to initiate a public debate on the future uses, mobility, and design of Plaça de Catalunya, anticipating pacification proposals by autumn 2026. This initiative aims to gather public input on how the square can be best utilised and improved for the benefit of the community. The square, inaugurated in 1967, is built on a platform over the Onyar River, connecting the Eixample, Barri Vell, and Mercadal neighbourhoods.
Historical Context and Significance
Plaça de Catalunya holds a significant place in Girona’s urban landscape. Its location over the Onyar River, connecting key neighbourhoods, makes it a vital artery in the city. The square, including the notable *Porxos de la plaça de Catalunya* (arcades), serves as a focal point for residents and visitors alike. These emergency works are therefore not only about structural repairs but also about preserving an important piece of Girona’s heritage. The plaza’s central location underscores its importance to the city’s infrastructure and daily life.
The City Council’s decision to combine these essential repairs with a wider public consultation demonstrates a commitment to both the immediate safety and the long-term development of this key urban space.
The International Centre for Numerical Methods in Engineering (CIMNE) may be a future partner to assist with the planning and simulation for any additional construction work, as is common with major infrastructure projects in Catalonia.
The situation will be updated in due course via the Oficina de Comunicació – Ajuntament de Girona press releases section, allowing the public to follow progress as the works continue.
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According to the official source, see L’Ajuntament de Girona reforçarà la plataforma de la plaça de Catalunya per garantir que segueixi sent funcional.
