Residents in the Sagrada Família neighbourhood of Barcelona are demanding action from the city council over severe traffic congestion on Sardenya Street, which they attribute to tourist buses.
The issue began two years ago when Barcelona City Council altered the route of the Bus Turístic. Since then, two lines, one public and one private, have stopped in front of the Sagrada Família temple and travelled along Sardenya Street. These buses run frequently, with only about a minute between them, according to residents.
Jorge Martín, a local resident, explained that the street has always had heavy traffic, but the tourist buses have made it worse. "They take up the space of eight cars because they use both narrow lanes," Martín said. The constant noise from cars and buses idling with their engines running further aggravates the problem.
Traffic Builds at Aragón Junction
The situation is made more complex by the traffic lights at the junction with Aragón Street. This intersection is a busy point where Aragón Street, Diagonal Avenue, and the tram line all converge. The traffic light cycle lasts almost two minutes, leading to significant traffic build-up.
Martín added, "The buses also cross paths, which means cars cannot leave when the light turns green, so there is a permanent jam." Affected residents are now at their limit and are asking the City Council to take steps to reduce the pressure on the area.
Residents suggest that at least one of the bus lines should change its route, and crucially, that the frequency of tourist buses should be increased to alleviate congestion.
Council Promises Solutions
Jordi Valls, the Eixample councillor, stated at the last Public Audience that "a reduction in bus frequency is already on the table" and that "a solution is close". He also mentioned efforts to "make one of the lines turn onto Mallorca Street to try and separate them". However, residents remain sceptical.
In 2024, the City Council identified 16 high-tourist-influx areas (EGAT) to address disruptions caused by tourism. This plan included provisions to increase waiting times and limit the number of bus lines operating in these areas, but it has not yet been implemented. Consequently, residents do not believe a short-term solution will be found.
