Barcelona allocates land in Ciutat Vella for public housing and community spaces

The city of Barcelona has taken a significant step towards improving access to affordable housing by approving the Urban Improvement Plan for the site located at Rec Comtal 19b, in the heart of the Ciutat Vella district. This initiative, which includes the construction of 16 public housing units, also encompasses the creation of community spaces and facilities on the ground floor of the building, reinforcing the City Council's commitment to social cohesion and sustainable urban development.

A key project for Ciutat Vella

The Deputy Mayor and Councillor for the Ciutat Vella District, Albert Batlle, highlighted that this project aims to make the most of every square metre available to generate affordable housing. “Transforming this plot known as ‘Benet Corner’ is a concrete response to a real need,” Batlle stated during the plan's presentation. With a total buildable area of 1,760 m², up to 1,151 m² will be allocated to the upper floors, where the new homes will be constructed.

Through this action, the City Council aims to increase its public housing stock and mobilise all available resources to facilitate new developments. This approach includes collaborations with non-profit entities under ESAL agreements, thus promoting a model that combines efficiency and social commitment.

Batlle also emphasised the importance of preserving the social value of the current space. The Comtal Foundation, linked to community projects such as urban gardens and training programmes, will play a crucial role in the future development of the area. “Housing policies are not just about building houses; they are also about building community,” he added.

This new project adds to other recent efforts by the City Council to increase the supply of public housing in Ciutat Vella. So far in the current term, 81 homes have already been delivered, while another 28 are in the allocation phase and 75 more are under construction. This push is an integral part of a broader strategy aimed at addressing the housing crisis facing Barcelona.

It is noteworthy that Ciutat Vella currently houses 19.5% of the total protected and affordable housing in the city, according to recent housing data published this summer. The City Council is actively working to secure suitable land for future constructions intended for public housing.

Aside from the project at Rec Comtal 19b, other initiatives are progressing within the district. Keys have recently been handed over to new residents in several developments: 44 flats at Sant Martí 12-16; 19 units designated for affordable rental at En Robador; and 18 more homes located on Joan de Borbó, all accompanied by spaces intended for community entities.

As this process advances, four additional developments are pending allocation: one with 11 protected homes at En Botella 16 and another with 17 units intended for affordable rental for young people at Hospital 116. Furthermore, work continues to develop new projects such as those located on Ronda Sant Pau, which will provide 36 new homes.

As Barcelona faces challenges related to its real estate market, initiatives like these are essential not only to provide housing solutions but also to foster a renewed sense of community among its residents. The local administration reaffirms its commitment to an inclusive city where everyone can find a place to call home.