The program targets municipalities with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants, Decentralized Municipal Entities (EMD), and regional capitals with fewer than 15,000 inhabitants. In Terres de l'Ebre, 44 local entities could be part of this initiative, primarily concentrated in Terra Alta and Ribera d’Ebre.
One of the plan's main innovations is the possibility of subsidizing almost 100% of project costs, easing the financial burden on municipalities. This measure contrasts with the 'Pla de Barris i Viles' (Neighborhoods and Towns Plan), where the Catalan government covers between 50% and 75% of costs. According to Joan Castor Gonell, the government delegate in Terres de l'Ebre, these grants are crucial for small villages needing full funding.
Project action lines include the rehabilitation of old town centers, improvement of economic activity, construction of social housing, and initiatives related to energy efficiency, heritage, or industrial estates. Projects will compete for aid, requiring solid proposals.
The plan foresees a total investment of 400 million euros, with 100 million annually until 2030. Unlike the Neighborhoods Plan, projects can be submitted progressively, without needing a comprehensive initial plan.
A key highlight of the Villages Plan is the inclusion of EMDs, which are often excluded from subsidies. This new program will allow them to apply directly through their presidents. In Terres de l'Ebre, Tortosa has 3 EMDs (Bítem, Jesús, and Campredó), and there are also the EMD of Els Muntells (in Sant Jaume d’Enveja) and La Serra d’Almos (in Tivissa).
The Villages Plan complements the Neighborhoods and Towns Plan 2025-2029. In Terres de l'Ebre, Tortosa and Amposta were selected in the first call. In a second call, 9 villages from the region have applied, although aid decisions are still pending.
