Reus Mayor Sandra Guaita has stated that immigration has "never been a problem" for the city, either socially or in terms of coexistence. Guaita, who has served as mayor for three years, emphasised Reus's long history as an open city and its commitment to remaining so.
In an interview, Guaita outlined her administration's focus on social cohesion, urban rebalancing towards the south of Reus, and the management of major strategic projects. She also confirmed her desire to lead the Socialist Party of Catalonia (PSC) candidacy again in the 2027 municipal elections, stating, "I want to, and the party knows it."
Addressing Historical Imbalances
Guaita acknowledged that the southern neighbourhoods of Reus have historically received less investment. Her administration aims to correct this imbalance, citing the Torres del Pinar area as a clear example. She explained that the city's growth previously focused on the north, east, and west, with development in the south stalling after the 2008 economic crisis. "It is a historical debt of everyone, of all governments," Guaita said.
Significant changes are planned for the south, including the start of works on Eix Estorga this week, expected to take eight to ten months. The reform of Escultor Rocamora and the L'Ametller nursery school are also set to begin. Additionally, plans for housing in Mas Iglesias and the Bellissens station are underway, alongside the tendering process for the Mercat del Carrilet.
Sustainable Growth and Social Cohesion
Reus is preparing for sustained population growth, with projections for an additional 20,000 residents in the south. This includes plans for 618 potential new homes through urban modifications, new construction, and land offered to the Generalitat. The L'Ametller nursery school and the Molinet Pavilion are also aimed at serving this growing area, with the potential need for a new primary healthcare centre (CAP).
Guaita stressed the importance of objective data when discussing migratory flows, warning against populist approaches that create conflict where none exists. She highlighted Reus's cohesive nature, where residents live throughout the city, and the goal to avoid stigmatisation or ghettoisation. The mayor aims for growth that is both urbanistically and socially sustainable, attracting economic development in sectors such as agri-food and technology.
Infrastructure and Cultural Investments
The mayor addressed the new bus station project, noting that while technical considerations are important, public feedback led to a new location. She expects updates on the station's tender in the coming days. Guaita also reaffirmed her commitment to the intermodal station in Vila-seca, stating that the consensus on this project "cannot be broken."
Regarding the Fortuny Theatre, which temporarily closed for corrections, Guaita assured that there was no risk to the public. "When they told us there were correction needs, we said: 'Let's close and correct,'" she explained. The theatre's roof is scheduled for renovation this summer. The city council is working with the property owners to establish legal mechanisms that would allow the Consorci to make necessary investments, as the council does not own the building.
Guaita also discussed the InnoReus business centre, confirming that the project will proceed, even if it requires solely municipal funding. She expressed a desire for involvement from other administrations. The mayor also reiterated her firm stance against far-right parties, stating, "I will not make any pacts with the far-right. I commit to that right here."
