Àlex Balletbó, president of Amics de la Rambla, announced that the extensive renovation of Barcelona's iconic La Rambla is on track for 98% completion by February 2027. This major urban project, which has significantly impacted local businesses, aims to revitalise the city's central promenade.

Balletbó confirmed the February 2027 target, acknowledging unforeseen issues common in large construction projects. He stated, "We see it as plausible to finish in February 2027, which does not mean everything will be ready. We will need to adjust small details, although it will be 98% finished."

Project Timeline and Business Impact

The ongoing works have reduced footfall on La Rambla by approximately 20%. This concentrates visitors into smaller accessible areas. Businesses have experienced substantial revenue drops. Some reported up to a 75% decrease when trenches blocked their entrances. Balletbó noted that new investors or openings have not yet appeared. People are waiting to see the final outcome of the renovation.

Amics de la Rambla will work to attract new operators. They also plan to collaborate with property owners. The goal is to create quality and diverse commercial offerings. This includes mediating in cases of expiring contracts. They aim to help owners make long-term decisions that revalue their properties, rather than accepting the first offer.

Cultural Revitalisation Efforts

The renovation seeks to transform La Rambla, a critical tourist axis and the city's heart, into a more diverse and culturally rich space. The Advisory Council of La Rambla recently recommended promoting culture and social housing. This strategy aims to bring more residents back to the area. It also enhances commercial value. Balletbó highlighted several cultural projects already underway.

These projects include the Capitol, Foneria de Canons, and Liceu Mar. Their reopening will add to the existing cultural offerings. The area will then boast four theatres, with three more in the surrounding zone. It will also feature five live music venues and eight museums. Six additional exhibition spaces are nearby. This count excludes libraries, educational centres, and numerous monuments. It also excludes the many street activities, fairs, and events held throughout the year.

Addressing Commercial Diversity

Amics de la Rambla also promotes initiatives like artistic souvenirs. These items feature Catalan and Barcelonan identity. They are developed in collaboration with Elisava school. The goal is to make these high-quality products industrially viable. This will make them more affordable for more travellers. Balletbó acknowledged that this process will not be quick, but they aim to improve the current souvenir market.

Regarding commercial variety, Amics de la Rambla desires more diversity. They want fewer souvenir shops and cannabis stores. The city's Plan de Usos (Uses Plan) plays a role here. Amics de la Rambla has submitted proposals to the Ajuntament. These proposals suggest increasing distances between similar businesses, such as supermarkets. This helps filter commercial offerings without preventing free trade.

Safety, Cleanliness, and Resident Retention

Amics de la Rambla has counted nine closed establishments out of approximately 230 currently. This excludes the three cultural projects. The works have not caused many closures. Some premises were already vacant since the pandemic. Before the pandemic, businesses quickly reopened after closing.

Balletbó believes it is possible to reverse the trend of giant beers and pre-cooked paella. He noted that online reviews now hold significant power. Tourists check ratings, which encourages businesses to improve quality. The Zone of Excellence for terraces supports this. Most operators view investing in it positively, despite potential costs of around 20,000 euros.

Balletbó acknowledged improvements in safety and cleanliness. However, he stressed the need for constant effort. Crime leaves if police pressure exists. Insecurity rises with fewer police. Cleanliness follows the same pattern. La Rambla may have the most resources, but it also handles the highest volume of visitors. The organisation works for residents. They want to ensure residents have easy access to their homes.

They want existing residents to stay. They also want more residents to arrive. This includes promoting lift installations. Such improvements prevent older residents from leaving. They also help families who struggle with stairs. The Observatori de la Rambla confirms a 20% reduction in footfall. However, the public space affected by works is even larger. This means fewer people but greater concentration in transit areas. The impact on many businesses has been much greater when works directly block access.

Looking ahead, Amics de la Rambla will continue its dialogue with the Barcelona Ajuntament to refine the project. They aim to ensure the revitalised La Rambla serves both residents and tourists with improved quality and accessibility. Balletbó noted some areas for improvement, such as adding trees in La Rambla Santa Mònica for continuity and shade. The opening of the downhill lane will also face delays as central sections are completed, ensuring safer passage for pedestrians.

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Originally published by El Periódico Barcelona. Read original article.