The Generalitat has declared Catalunya Media City a strategic project, expediting its growth and ensuring necessary energy capacity for future developments.
The Generalitat de Catalunya has officially designated the Catalunya Media City project as a strategic initiative, a decision that promises to accelerate the development of the ambitious audiovisual hub at the site known as Tres Xemeneies. This declaration, approved by the Consell Executiu on Tuesday, is pivotal in securing essential electrical capacity needed for future expansions.
Eva Giménez, the General Secretary of the Presidency, emphasized that this project has reached a significant level of maturity following initial urban management approvals. She stated, “The intention is to ensure that this area will have all the power it needs for future installations.” This proactive approach aims to eliminate any potential energy limitations that could hinder growth.
The declaration not only prioritizes Catalunya Media City in obtaining connections to the national electrical grid but also facilitates faster administrative processes. Dani Pérez, Coordinator of the Interdepartmental Commission for Energy Transition, explained that previously connections were granted on a first-come-first-served basis. Now, under this new legal framework, priority will be given to residential areas, public services, and strategic investment projects.
“We want to be at the front of the line so that if more electrical power is needed in the future, this project will have guaranteed access,” Pérez summarized. The Generalitat’s declaration strengthens their upcoming request to the state government for recognition as a strategic investment project under Royal Decree Law 7/2026.
Ferran Falcó, manager of Consorci del Besòs—responsible for leading urban development in this sector—highlighted that completing urban planning procedures remains their top priority before attracting businesses. Currently undergoing public consultation are plans for urbanization and land redistribution within the area. The rehabilitation project for an old turbine building is also progressing well. Falcó anticipates final approval of these instruments by year-end and aims to formalize land acquisitions designated for economic activities shortly thereafter.
The Consorci plans to acquire approximately 67,869 square meters intended for companies involved in audiovisual production, digital technology, video games, and immersive technologies. Falcó noted that energy availability is crucial in attracting new investments: “Thirty years ago having industrial land was key; today having energy is just as critical.” He added that they are committed to ensuring sufficient electrical capacity when potential projects arrive.
While it may still be early to announce specific business interests in Catalunya Media City due to ongoing urbanization efforts and pending state recognition, there are numerous advantages tied to its strategic designation. These include enhanced coordination among governmental bodies and expedited access to funding programs alongside streamlined infrastructure licensing processes.
Catalunya Media City represents one of the Generalitat’s major initiatives aimed at transforming Tres Xemeneies into an international center dedicated not only to audiovisual production but also digital innovation and higher education collaboration with nearby facilities like Parc Audiovisual de Catalunya and Diagonal-Besòs campus.
As preparations continue towards realizing this vision for Catalunya Media City—expected to become a vibrant hub within Europe—the next steps involve finalizing urban planning approvals and formally requesting state recognition as a strategic investment project.
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