The socialist municipal government has overcome one of its most unexpected defeats, after the Urban Planning Commission vetoed the project in December. The abstention of Junts and the votes against by Barcelona en Comú, ERC, and Vox caused the file to fail, which is now revived thanks to the change in position by the Junts councilors.
“"This is an agreement that goes beyond the Capitol and puts culture at the center of Ciutat Vella."
Junts councilors, Joan Rodríguez and Damià Calvet, explained that the pact includes expanding spaces for the reception and visibility of the Giants of Barcelona and popular culture in the district. Furthermore, Junts introduced adjustments to the definition of the theater's rehabilitation process and its subsequent management.
Controversy persists due to opposition accusations of “urbanistic windfall” (pelotazo). The operation is based on a pact with the real estate company Torcalena, owner of the theater and the Telefónica building in Portal de l'Àngel. In exchange for ceding the theater, the Telefónica building changes its classification to economic uses, generating an estimated capital gain of 37 million euros.
“"The acquisition of the Capitol is a very clear opportunity for the city, and it is irresponsible to speak of a windfall."
