For years, Barcelona residents have viewed La Rambla, a central artery of the city, as primarily an overcrowded tourist destination.
However, the city council is working to shift this perspective with a new mega project that is set to cost £44.7 million, according to the Catalan News website.
Since 2022, efforts have been underway to revitalise the iconic boulevard, aiming to make it more inviting for locals once again.
The transformation plan focuses on creating a greener, more culturally rich space, with wider pavements and fewer roads. By reducing traffic from two lanes to one, Barcelona hopes to reshape La Rambla into a vibrant pedestrian-friendly zone.
The first phase of the plan, spearheaded by architect Lola Domènech and landscape architect Olga Tarrasó, along with the help of community groups, is on track for completion in October.
The ambitious project also includes limiting the number of shops that cater primarily to tourists, as part of a broader effort to reclaim the space for the city’s residents.
Planners are seeking to balance tourism with the needs of the community, especially after recent protests this summer against overtourism in major Spanish cities – including Barcelona.
While an initial proposal to make the boulevard entirely pedestrianised was abandoned due to the area’s mix of shops, restaurants, and homes, the updated plan still focuses on reducing traffic and enhancing the local experience.
As part of the redesign, three new public squares will be added, along with a distinctive two-tone pavement.
The improvements will also include upgraded lighting and street furniture, providing more space for the 375 trees along the boulevard.
Additionally, new cultural hubs, including an art and opera centre, are set to be built in the area.
In 2017, the city government launched a design competition aimed at restoring La Rambla to its former glory.
The winning proposal came from Km_ZERO, a multidisciplinary team of 15 members, developed with the input of numerous community groups.
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