Barcelona's Port Vell is undergoing a significant urban transformation, with plans for a new 7,574 square metre esplanade and improved public access to the sea. This major renewal forms a lasting legacy of the 2024 America's Cup sailing event.

Over 136 million euros, from both public and private sources, have funded this extensive urban development. This represents the most substantial urban change since the 1992 Olympic Games.

The Barcelona City Council's Government Commission has given initial approval to two modifications. These changes affect special plans regulating the Nova Bocana and the Barceloneta, Rellotge, and Pescadors docks. The Autoritat Portuària de Barcelona aims to bring port infrastructure closer to residents. It also seeks to promote the city's blue economy.

The America's Cup, held in 2024, spurred 25 separate projects between 2023 and 2024. These projects opened the Nova Bocana to the public, adding a new promenade and a Mirador building. Maritime operations also moved from the central Barcelona Norte and Drassanes docks to the more distant Muelle Adossat. Additionally, officials rehabilitated the historical sheds of the Oriental dock, and a nautical bus service started.

The Port Authority has also driven the expansion of the Institut de Nàutica de Barcelona. It has opened several marina buildings to the public. Furthermore, the Muelle Adossat has expanded for nautical uses.

Expanding Nautical Training

The Institut de Nàutica de Barcelona has provided professional training since 2015. It offers courses in boat maintenance and sports related to beach activities, sailing, diving, and rescue. The educational centre currently operates from three buildings. Two are on Carrer de l’Escar, and one is on Passeig de Joan de Borbó.

Growing demand has prompted the Port to expand the boatyard at Carrer de l’Escar, 3. This facility will grow from 600 square metres to 3,900 square metres. A new three-storey block will connect with the existing centre, unifying the campus.

The plan also includes redeveloping Carrer de l’Escar. This street is part of La Barceloneta's historic network. It originally provided access to the Muelle dels Pescadors, home to the Llotja fish market and the Torre del Rellotge clock tower.

New Public Spaces and Restrictions

The port plans another significant renovation in the Nova Bocana area. This modern section of the infrastructure acts as a gateway to the sea from La Barceloneta district, home to over 15,000 residents. The Port Authority acknowledges that the current infrastructure lacks sufficient open space. This space is needed to host various fleets, such as the America's Cup, the future AC40 circuit, SailGP, Base Mini, Ocean Race, and oceanic sailing events.

Due to increased nautical activity, the authority has pushed for the expansion of the Muelle Adossat. This expansion, adjacent to the Dic de Recer promenade, will create a new 7,574 square metre esplanade. Up to two new buildings, totalling 5,000 square metres, will provide nautical services on this expanded land.

Crucially, the plan explicitly prohibits certain nightlife venues. Discos, dance halls, party venues with shows, theatre cafés, and concert cafés are banned. This applies to buildings within Marina Port Vell and the Nova Bocana. Additionally, restaurants in these areas, previously restricted to marina users, must now be accessible to all members of the public. This change benefits both residents and tourists seeking dining options.

Improving City Views

The plan also involves demolishing the industrial shed on Muelle de Llevant. This building houses the Fundación Navegación Oceánica Barcelona (FNOB). It initially served as a shipyard. However, the Port Authority states that the building's visual impact is "negative" for the city's urban profile.

Following the demolition, two new buildings will rise at the northern and southern ends of the dock. This design will free up maximum surface area on the quay. It will also provide expansive views from La Rambla and the Mirador building.

These approved modifications mark a significant step in Barcelona's ongoing effort to integrate its port with the city. The changes aim to create more public spaces and support the growing blue economy. Residents and visitors can expect a more open and accessible Port Vell in the coming years.

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Originally published by Metrópoli Abierta - Urban Life. Read original article.