Safety Risks from Unauthorized Overnight Stays

The Barcelona City Council has hired a permanent, unarmed surveillance service to protect its 40 municipal markets from illegal occupations, after detecting an increase in unauthorized overnight stays in recent months. An internal municipal report states that people have been settling in logistics areas, access points, and parking zones of several markets, with some encampments located near emergency exits. This poses a serious risk during evacuations, as the presence of occupants could obstruct emergency procedures. The report warns the situation has become "more complicated and serious" due to growing numbers occupying underground logistics spaces.

Response to Repeated Incidents

Previously, the council relied on interventions by the Guardia Urbana (city police), Mossos d’Esquadra (regional police), social services, and municipal territorial units to manage the issue. Officials noted these incidents have caused "serious security problems" for market users and stallholders. A recent case at the Vall d’Hebron market prompted action after unauthorised individuals were again found entering and staying overnight. The issue was discussed at the Horta-Guinardó district’s homelessness coordination table before the Guardia Urbana carried out an eviction.

The guards will handle unexpected occupations, ensure sanitation, and safeguard workers and users.

Pilot Surveillance Contract Worth €83,515

The new service, awarded to the company Alerta y Control, began on 22nd October 2026 and runs for six months at a cost of €83,515. The contract includes provisions for up to three six-month extensions, which could extend the project to two years and raise the total cost to over €330,000. Under the terms, the company must maintain a fully traceable record of all surveillance actions and points. The initiative is considered a pilot project aimed at ensuring the regular operation of public markets, preventing misuse of facilities, and protecting public health and safety.

Sources: Metrópoli, metropoliabierta.cat, contractaciopublica.cat.