Barcelona is set to reform Passeig de la Zona Franca with a design similar to the one implemented on Meridiana Avenue, according to Mayor Jaume Collboni. This transformation, which the previous Comuns government started and Collboni's administration has continued, will feature a central green area and a cycle lane, flanked by separate lanes for private vehicles and public transport.
The reform is part of broader changes for the La Marina neighbourhood, which has seen 1,500 new homes built and has another 2,500 planned. By 2035, the city executive estimates an additional 30,000 people will live in this area. Collboni stated the intention is for the new design to create "squares and meeting spaces that link the neighbourhoods."
Funding and Objectives
Collboni confirmed on Thursday that the city has the resources for the executive project. This urban transformation is one of around 40 measures under the Pla de Barris (Neighbourhood Plan), which will see a total investment of nine million euros over the next two years. The mayor emphasised that the plan aims to "link what will be one of the great neighbourhoods of the future."
He outlined a triple objective for the project: "To mend, structure, and connect the neighbourhoods of La Marina del Port and La Marina del Prat Vermell, and to promote urban transformation that impacts the improvement of employment initiatives." This focus on integration and job opportunities highlights the plan's social and economic goals.
Connectivity and Transport Improvements
Other significant measures within the plan include extending the Ronda Litoral, a coastal ring road, between Zona Franca and the Port of Barcelona. There will also be new bus lines, the X3 and an extension of the V5, introduced. Collboni stated that the goal is to connect La Marina with the city centre before the end of the year, improving public transport access for residents.
The overall plan seeks to integrate the rapidly growing La Marina area more effectively with the rest of Barcelona. The urban changes on Passeig de la Zona Franca are a key component of this strategy, aiming to create a more liveable and connected environment for its current and future inhabitants.
