Neighborhood split over relocation of residents affected by Vallcarca urban plan

The Barcelona Ombudsman's mediation ends with 14 people rejecting the proposed housing alternatives.

Generic image of a residential building in the Vallcarca neighborhood, Barcelona.
IA

Generic image of a residential building in the Vallcarca neighborhood, Barcelona.

The Barcelona Ombudsman, David Bondia, has concluded mediation with Vallcarca residents facing eviction, securing housing for 28 people despite 14 others rejecting the offers.

Families who accepted the housing solution will soon be relocated to apartments in Torre Baró, the Gothic Quarter, and Eixample, specifically in Casa Orsola. Despite the agreement, none of those affected will remain in their original neighborhood, as the Ombudsman confirmed it was impossible to find available flats in the Gràcia district.

"Those who have accepted relocation did so under the game of fear and threats of eviction by the City Council."

Ester Murillo · Som Barri Lawyer
On the other hand, 14 people declined the municipal offer. Among them is a family unit of eight members who criticize the proposal for forcing them to separate. The Som Barri platform and the Vallcarca Housing Union have denounced a lack of transparency and accused the Barcelona City Council of using the Ombudsman to close the process without negotiating changes to the urban planning.