The Area Metropolitana de Barcelona has initiated a significant transformation of the confluence of the Sec and Ripoll rivers into a large river park. This project aims to enhance ecological restoration and improve urban mobility.
The Area Metropolitana de Barcelona (AMB) has officially commenced construction on an ambitious project aimed at transforming the confluence of the Sec and Ripoll rivers, along with the Maria Regordosa i del Masot park, into a substantial river park. This initiative is designed to strengthen the connection between urban areas and natural environments, significantly impacting both local residents and visitors.
According to Luis Tirado, the mayor of Ripollet, this new development will create a vital axis that links key locations such as the Sec and Ripoll rivers, the Maria Regordosa i del Masot park, a future regional hospital, and the urban center of Ripollet. He emphasized that this transformation represents a strategic move that will enhance mobility for pedestrians and cyclists while restoring ecological balance in the area.
The project is part of AMB’s broader initiative under its Program for Natural and Urban Landscapes (PSG), covering an area of 18,000 square meters. The total investment for this endeavor is approximately 1.5 million euros, equally funded by AMB and the municipality of Ripollet. The local government plans to cover its share through a grant of 750,000 euros from the Diputació de Barcelona.
A primary goal of this intervention is to achieve ecological restoration along a section of the Sec River. This effort aims to recover its role as a natural corridor while promoting biodiversity along its banks. Historical data shows that similar projects in other regions have successfully revitalized degraded landscapes, leading to increased wildlife populations and improved community engagement with nature.
The current landscape around these rivers has suffered from degradation due to previous canalization efforts. This has resulted in eroded areas, invasive vegetation growth, and inappropriate land use that disconnects public spaces from their natural surroundings. To address these issues, plans include removing physical barriers such as concrete embankments while reshaping topography to restore connections between parks and river spaces.
This redevelopment will also introduce new habitats for wildlife alongside features designed for rainwater management—allowing for better absorption into local ecosystems while encouraging native plant growth. A notable addition will be an innovative floodable pedestrian bridge over the Ripoll River that will complete a green link within Ripollet.
This new bridge will facilitate walking and cycling between both riverbanks while connecting essential community resources like Maria Regordosa i del Masot park with future healthcare facilities and urban centers. As construction progresses, residents can expect enhanced access to green spaces previously hindered by road infrastructure.
The completion timeline for this transformative project remains under review but promises significant improvements in environmental quality and urban connectivity once finalized. For those interested in following developments or accessing newly created pathways upon completion, updates will be available through local municipal channels.
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