City studies switch to metal bins
Barcelona City Council is considering purchasing metal waste containers to replace plastic ones in locations where deliberate fires have been detected. Deputy Mayor Albert Batlle confirmed the measure during the Presidency and Security Commission meeting on Wednesday 21st October 2026, stating it was "a line to continue studying with the companies that offer the service." This follows a proposal from ERC asking Mayor Jaume Collboni’s administration to adopt fire-resistant bins after repeated incidents in Horta-Guinardó, particularly on Carrer de l’Art and Rambla de la Muntanya. Republican councillor Jordi Coronas said: "If the measures adopted so far have not prevented further fires, we must go further." The proposal received unanimous support from all political groups, including Junts, PSC, BComú, PP, and Vox.
Pilot scheme to assess safety and cost
The initiative calls for an experimental installation of metal or fire-resistant containers in high-risk areas. The trial will assess their effectiveness, safety, accessibility, compatibility with existing waste collection systems, acoustic impact, and cost. Based on the results, the model could be extended to other districts. ERC noted that cities including Sabadell, Vic, and Vitoria have already implemented similar measures and could serve as reference points.
Coordination and monitoring improvements
Beyond the pilot, the proposal urges identifying the highest-risk locations, reviewing bin placement near homes, and strengthening coordination between the Guardia Urbana, Mossos d’Esquadra, Bombers (firefighters), and cleaning services. It also calls for an information and monitoring system so residents can track progress and outcomes.
Immediate relocations in Horta-Guinardó
The Horta-Guinardó district has already taken emergency steps at residents’ request. Blue and yellow recycling containers at Carrer de l’Art, 7, have been moved away from windows. Containers at Rambla de la Muntanya, 89, and Carrer de Sales i Ferré, 13, have been temporarily removed. These actions follow ongoing police investigations into the fires. A joint operation by the Guardia Urbana and Mossos d’Esquadra has led to two arrests in recent months. Preventive measures remain in place as inquiries continue.
Primary sources: ajuntament.barcelona.cat. Reported by Roger Torres i Liñán, apdnoticies.com, betevé.
