The dispute over maintaining old signs that do not meet current municipal regulations has reached the courts, sparking a debate on preserving the identity of historic venues. Bodega Carol, located on Aragó street, has taken the case to court after receiving a notice to remove its sign, which slightly exceeds the permitted width. The owners argue it is a symbol of neighborhood identity and that any violation, if applicable, would have expired.
Municipal sources have confirmed to EL PERIÓDICO that they are studying the possibility of introducing "adjustments to the current ordinance" to reconcile regulatory compliance with the preservation of the "collective imaginary" represented by these establishments. The aim is to find formulas that address situations like this, which also affects Bodega Fermín in Barceloneta.
“"The municipal government wants to make it clear that its intention is to move forward with formulas that allow for responses to situations like this, including, if appropriate, the possibility of introducing adjustments to the current ordinance."
In Barceloneta, Bodega Fermín has already removed its flag-shaped sign that protruded from the facade and is negotiating with the City Council to preserve at least the front sign. The owners expressed "sadness" and "indignation" at the municipal order, arguing that it disrespects the neighborhood's identity markers and that many other local businesses do not comply with the regulations.
Bodega Carol, dating back to 1939 and having its sign's lettering changed before 2015, faces coercive fines of 750 euros. Its co-owners, who are lawyers, have decided to fight legally to defend what they consider a neighborhood symbol, despite their initial appeals and resources being dismissed. The case is awaiting a hearing at the administrative litigation court number 3 in Barcelona.
The association Iberian Network for the Defense of Graphic Heritage has called for a "regulatory safe-conduct" for old signs, and municipal groups ERC and PP have demanded that the regulation include protection for historic establishments. This social and political support has driven the negotiation to find a solution for Bodega Fermín.
