City Acts on Fire Department Safety Report
Barcelona City Council has cut off electricity to the housing protest encampment in Plaça Catalunya and installed perimeter fencing, following a safety report from the Barcelona Fire Department. The move, implemented on Tuesday 20th October 2026, affects hundreds of activists and residents who have occupied the square since 29th September in protest over the housing crisis. According to municipal sources, the Fire Department produced a prevention report warning of a real physical risk due to an irregular electrical connection made by protesters to the urban furniture’s power grid. Citing the need to protect the safety and integrity of those at the camp, the council ordered an immediate power cut.
Protesters Accuse Council of Pressure Tactics
Protest spokespersons say they received no prior notice or inspection request before the blackout. They accuse Mayor Jaume Collboni’s administration of using the power cut as a pressure tactic to wear down the movement and force the dismantling of tents. CatalunyaPress confirmed on Wednesday 21st October 2026 that the site remains without electricity and is now fully enclosed by metal fencing. Access is restricted to a single controlled entry point for protesters and supporters.
The lack of light and information is creating uncertainty. We don’t know if the power will come back or if this is permanent.
Despite the conditions, the protest assembly has stated its intention to remain in the square. The camp marks its third week on 21st October, with organisers estimating over 600 tents.
Standoff Deepens Amid Fenced-Off Square
The institutional deadlock between housing collectives and the city government continues. No formal dialogue has resumed, and the provision of basic services remains suspended. Protesters say they are prepared to endure low night temperatures and limited facilities. The fencing, which surrounds the entire occupied area, was introduced alongside the power cut. While the council frames both actions as safety measures, protesters link the fencing to recent reports of far-right threats, a claim referenced in reporting by Betevé. Residents, commuters and city visitors should expect continued disruption around Plaça Catalunya. The situation remains fluid, with no indication from the council of when or under what conditions services might be restored.
Reported by catalunyapress.es, ground.news, catalunyapress.cat, en.ara.cat, metropoliabierta.cat, Barna.News, vilaweb.cat, beteve.cat, Metrópoli Abierta (CA), metropoliabierta.elespanol.com, CatalunyaPress.
