This major European city is getting a massive new urban park

While we hope some parts of our cities never change, the most effective use of space and need for new infrastructure is always shifting, and it’s just been unveiled that this neighbourhood in Barcelona is slated to get an enormous makeover. 

The sprawling 35,000 square-metre Illa Citroën plot in La Bordeta, Sants-Montjuïc is set to undergo an unrecognisable transformation which strives to offer the surrounding neighbourhoods a huge new green space and more than 100 social housing apartments. 

Barcelona’s City Council initially gave the plans a thumbs-up in January, and though the final rubber stamp from the Generalitat (that’s the Catalan government) isn’t expected until the second half of 2026, let’s take a look at the plans anyway. 

So, which areas will actually be affected? Well, the project covers the 19,000 square-metre site currently occupied by the Stellantis (formerly Citroën) car facilities, plus various surrounding municipal plots between Rambla de Badal and Riera Blanca.

Local residents in the area have long been calling for more green space, and that’s exactly what the proposal entails. A new park will utilise 54 percent of the current industrial site, and old factory buildings will be demolished to create accessible walkways that connect with Rambla de Badal and the elevated Sants Gardens. 

However, lots of new housing has also been factored in. There’ll reportedly be 104 apartments at social housing prices on Rambla de Badal, as well as 110 private homes with subterranean parking on Riera Blanca. 

On top of all that, 14 percent of the former factory land will be designated for community usage, so stay tuned as we learn more. 

More on travel to Barcelona

For more on Spain’s brilliant second city, have a read of our guides on the best things to do, the best attractions to see, the top places to eat and drink, and all the loveliest hotels to stay at. 

ICYMI: A brand-new art gallery has just opened in Gaudi’s house in Barcelona.

Plus: Locals in this European town are campaigning to revoke its UNESCO status – here’s why. 

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