Renfe has commenced a major overhaul of the Cornellà de Llobregat train station, investing just over €2 million to preserve a significant piece of Spain’s railway history while modernising its facilities. The station’s passenger building, constructed in 1855, holds the distinction of being the oldest still in operation anywhere in the country. The project aims to blend historical rehabilitation with crucial accessibility upgrades for the more than 10,500 travellers who use the station daily.
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The works, which began on Monday, have a precise budget of €2,092,064.88 (including VAT). Located in the Baix Llobregat municipality of Cornellà de Llobregat, the station is a key stop on the R4 line of the Rodalies de Catalunya network. Its history is intertwined with the very beginnings of rail transport in Spain. This renovation therefore represents a significant act of industrial heritage preservation.
A Blend of Heritage and Modernity
The project’s core objective is a delicate balance: to carefully restore the 19th-century building while ensuring it meets 21st-century standards. The rehabilitation will focus on the complete restoration of the historic building’s façade, cornice, and balustrade, preserving its original character.
In parallel, a comprehensive accessibility programme will also be rolled out. This includes replacing the existing lifts with modern, more reliable units. New ramps and staircases, complete with handrails, will be added at the main entrance, making the station fully compliant with current accessibility regulations.
Improving the Commuter Experience
Beyond the structural and accessibility works, the renovation aims to enhance the overall experience for passengers. El Periódico reported that the main lobby will be reorganised with updated finishes and renewed customer service areas. For improved platform comfort, three new canopies will be installed – one on platform 1 and two on platform 2 – offering better protection from the elements.
The upgrades extend to the station’s essential infrastructure. Plans include a complete renewal of the low-voltage electrical systems, encompassing refurbished technical rooms, new electrical panels, and upgraded lighting across platforms, the underpass, lobby, and the building’s exterior. The project will also create a new sanitation network for rainwater collection and improve drainage in the underpass. To ensure operational continuity, a secondary power supply will be added, either through a new connection or a generator.
Minimising Disruption
The Cornellà Town Council stated that authorities are taking measures to mitigate the impact on daily commuters.
“These works will benefit the more than 10,500 travellers who use these facilities every day,” the council explained.
“During the work period, the necessary signage will be installed to show users access routes, with the aim of causing the least possible inconvenience.”
This renovation is part of a broader investment strategy for the region’s beleaguered Rodalies network. It falls within Renfe’s Urgent Measures Plan, developed in coordination with the Generalitat de Catalunya. The investment comes amid ongoing discussions about the future management of the commuter rail service.
