Nine years after its inauguration, which coincided with the arrival of the FGC to the neighborhood, the first section of Parc del Nord in Sabadell shows a state of degradation that worries residents. This space, conceived to integrate the northern neighborhoods, has seen public furniture disappear or be damaged without replacement, and green areas not receiving adequate maintenance.
Residents have documented the loss of eight waste bins, with only five remaining in the entire park section. This situation makes it difficult for dog owners to pick up their pets' waste, contributing to the area's dirtiness. Likewise, the lack of benches is a recurring complaint; in 2018, nine benches were stolen, and despite the identification of the alleged perpetrator by the Municipal Police, these items have never been replaced.
“"How can we ask dog owners to pick up their animals' droppings if they have to walk the entire park section with the bag in hand?"
The City Council has reported the purchase of over a thousand new urban furniture units to reinforce benches and waste bins throughout the city. However, residents insist on the need for greater investment and stricter police control, especially given the planned installation of security cameras in the park.
Neighbor dissatisfaction also extends to the dog area, which is full of thorns and pine needles, posing a danger to animals. Additionally, the lack of tree replacement and the malfunction of the automatic irrigation system, which has suffered breakdowns due to the drought period, are highlighted. A request has also been made for improved lighting in some sections and the leveling of a slope on the central walkway that hinders passage for people with reduced mobility.
“"It's not about criticizing the City Council, but rather incivility... there can't be a cleaning person behind every person who litters, nor a police officer for every vandal. We need everyone to respect public space."
Municipal sources have explained that tree replacement is not always immediate due to the limited availability of some species in nurseries, but they have announced a new planting initiative in empty tree pits in different parts of Sabadell. Regarding automatic irrigation, new systems and materials are expected to replace the faulty ones. Residents conclude that, without civility and investment, the park's deterioration will continue to increase.
