Barcelona City Council has awarded a major sewer maintenance contract to FCC Medio Ambiente. The €188 million deal covers eight years of work on the city’s extensive network. Barcelona City Council confirmed the FCC Medio Ambiente contract, which includes a potential two-year extension. Consequently, this agreement represents the city’s second-largest urban services contract.
The Urban Planning Commission ratified the decision on Tuesday. Consequently, it secured broad political support. Votes in favour came from the PSC, Junts, BComú, ERC, and the PP. Meanwhile, Vox abstained.
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Sewer maintenance contract focuses on flood prevention
The new sewer maintenance contract introduces significant upgrades to maintenance protocols. Moreover, these changes address climate resilience and infrastructure longevity. Two major service additions distinguish this tender from previous agreements.
- Targeted storm drain cleaning: A specific, independent cleaning schedule for sumps and drains has been established. This measure aims to ensure optimal functionality during heavy rainfall. Therefore, it minimises the risk of urban flooding.
- Structural inspections: The contract mandates a rigorous inspection regime for the accessible parts of the network. Approximately 120 kilometres of the subterranean grid will be reviewed annually. Additionally, this process monitors conservation status and improves drainage performance.
The contract value represents an increase of €3.5 million compared to the previous award. Additionally, it includes the subrogation of the current workforce. Therefore, this preserves the jobs of 201 specialist staff members.
Managing the ‘underground city’
Barcelona’s sewer system is a massive piece of infrastructure. It stretches approximately 1,650 kilometres-longer than the city’s 1,300 kilometres of linear streets. About 52% of this network is accessible to workers for manual inspection and repair. Meanwhile, the remainder requires mechanical intervention.
The system serves a dual critical function. It transports wastewater from homes and businesses, and manages rainwater runoff. Efficient storm water management is particularly vital for low-lying districts such as Ciutat Vella and the Paral·lel area. New collectors have recently alleviated historic flooding issues in these neighbourhoods. However, the enhanced maintenance regime is essential for keeping the system operational during increasingly erratic weather events.
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