The Sant Adrià de Besòs City Council has awarded the renovation of Plaza 25 d'Octubre, but residents of the Besòs neighbourhood claim that the project will eliminate the sports court, which they consider "the true heart" of the space.
The Sant Adrià de Besòs City Council has awarded the renovation of Plaza 25 d'Octubre, in the El Besòs neighbourhood, an intervention that local residents deem necessary but poorly focused. The main point of contention is the potential disappearance of the sports court, an element that, according to residents, brings life to the space.
"The true heart of this square is its sports court," residents assert in statements to this newspaper. They explain that in summer it gathers more than 30 children playing football and that it is a place of coexistence where there have never been any problems. "Afternoons turn into evenings, with children and neighbours sharing moments outdoors," they add.
Residents criticise that the project drafted by the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona (AMB) does not reflect the actual use of the space. While they appreciate the public investment, they believe it is "not correct" to present a renovation without considering the risk of the sports court's extinction, which they see as the symbol that brings life to the square.
In addition to the court, residents express uncertainty about the new green areas planned. "We understand the incorporation of these natural spaces, but we are concerned that they may bring more dirt, rats, and that it will repeat the model of other parks that, over time, become empty because they do not meet the real needs of the residents," they point out.
The project, which encompasses the streets Argentina, Goya, and Somosierra, aims to turn the square into one of the most significant public spaces in the neighbourhood. The comprehensive renovation includes tree planting, the creation of shaded areas, and a reorganisation of traffic. The execution period is six months and is expected to begin at the end of August or early September, according to the City Council.
The council, led by Mayor Filo Cañete, initiated this intervention three years ago through a citizen participation process focused on zoning and circulation. However, residents opposed to the current design claim to be aware of the voting, but are surprised that this particular design emerged, which does not reflect the actual use of the square.
"We are not against the renovation," residents clarify. "We only request that the court is not removed or that a suitable space is reserved for children to continue practicing sports." The sports court is, according to them, the element that truly brings life to the square and its removal would mean losing the heart of the neighbourhood.
The renovation of Plaza 25 d'Octubre is part of a plan to improve public spaces in Sant Adrià de Besòs, a municipality in Barcelonès that seeks to revitalise its neighbourhoods. The action is financed by the AMB and the City Council, although residents are asking for the design to be reconsidered to maintain the sports court.
Meanwhile, residents of the Besòs neighbourhood hope that the council will heed their demands and that the renovation does not end up destroying a space they consider fundamental for coexistence. The works, if the planned schedule is maintained, will begin in the coming weeks.
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