The city of Barcelona has initiated significant renovations to the Font del Carbó gardens, a previously closed area adjacent to the iconic Park Güell. This project aims to transform the neglected space into a public park, responding to community demands for more accessible green areas amid increasing tourist congestion.
Transforming a neglected space
Located in the Salut neighborhood, the Font del Carbó gardens have long been abandoned and are currently in disrepair. The ambitious renovation is expected to take two years and will cost approximately 3.6 million euros. This initiative is part of a broader improvement plan for Park Güell and its surroundings, which has a total budget of 39 million euros, funded through ticket sales from the park.
The redesign will feature several distinct tiered areas. The upper section will provide spaces for relaxation, while shaded areas will be created below, along with expanded sidewalks and modifications to existing fences. Central to the new design are community gardens that will be clearly defined within the park.
The project also includes various meeting points throughout the area and plans for a small agora intended for communal use. A slide will be constructed utilizing the natural slope of the terrain, adding an element of fun for visitors.
An essential aspect of this renovation is environmental stewardship; efforts will be made to preserve much of the existing vegetation whenever feasible. Two zones dedicated to biodiversity will be established, featuring bee habitats accompanied by educational materials aimed at raising awareness about local ecology.
The city council has announced that several unique features within the gardens will undergo restoration, including stone walls, the Font del Carbó itself—which is currently in poor condition—and chapels located near staircases. These enhancements not only aim to revitalize the garden’s interior but also seek to improve pedestrian mobility in surrounding areas.
New pathways connecting the gardens with Antequera and Marianao streets are planned to facilitate easier movement throughout this green space. This comprehensive approach reflects Barcelona’s commitment to enhancing urban living conditions while addressing both environmental concerns and community needs.
This renovation comes as part of ongoing efforts by local authorities to engage with residents who have voiced their concerns over overcrowding due to tourism in popular areas like Park Güell. By creating more public parks such as those at Font del Carbó, officials hope not only to alleviate some pressure from tourist hotspots but also enrich local neighborhoods with accessible recreational spaces.
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