Horta-Guinardó estate transformation plans have been approved despite community opposition, converting a cherished semi-wooded property into a private nursing home.
Your browser does not support the video tag.
The decision marks the conclusion of a lengthy dispute between Font d’en Fargues neighbourhood residents and the estate’s owners.
Horta-Guinardó Estate Transformation Sparks Mixed Reactions
Urban Development Commission members have greenlit the project following a temporary suspension earlier this year. The approval came with votes from PSC, JuntsXBCN, PP and Vox parties, while only BComú and ERC opposed the development. Consequently, the modernist house will be demolished to make way for the new facility.
The property, known locally as ‘La Selva’, spans over one hectare on Camil Oliveres Street. Furthermore, it features architectural elements recalling early 20th-century summer residences built by wealthy Barcelona families seeking natural surroundings beyond the city centre. The estate had fallen into disuse in recent years, with its gates remaining open to the public.
Meanwhile, community campaigners from the ‘Salvem el Patrimoni, Salvem La Selva’ collective had advocated for public expropriation to create green space. Their efforts initially led to the suspension of the Special Urban Plan in February. However, the property owners requested this pause to redesign their proposal, ultimately presenting the version that gained approval.
The revised plan includes a significant concession: approximately 1,300 square metres of garden will become publicly accessible during specified hours. This compromise emerged from mediation between Horta-Guinardó district officials and the property developers. Therefore, it helped secure the necessary political support for the Horta-Guinardó estate transformation to proceed.
Despite these adjustments, community representatives attended the commission meeting to voice their ongoing opposition. They argue the project will still require demolishing the modernist house and removing dozens of trees, though some may be transplanted. The perimeter wall represents the only preserved historical element in the current plans.
This development reflects broader tensions in Barcelona’s urban planning landscape as the city balances private development with community needs. The Horta-Guinardó estate transformation follows similar patterns seen across Barcelona neighbourhoods where green spaces remain in high demand.
According to El Nacional, the property had become an urban oasis within Barcelona’s dense fabric. Its semi-forest character and accessible grounds made it particularly valued by local residents seeking respite from urban density. The final Horta-Guinardó estate transformation will permanently alter this neighbourhood landmark.
Join our WhatsApp broadcast channel for instant news updates!
Source: Read original article
