Alleged Threats and Sanitation Hazards
Residents of Horta-Guinardó and Nou Barris have raised urgent concerns over an unauthorised settlement on Carrer de Petrarca, located between Vies del Duero and Carrer de Cartellà in the Vilapicina neighbourhood. Since early June 2026, more than twenty people have occupied municipal land at number 33 on the street, living in makeshift shacks that have become a focal point for alleged incivility, insecurity, and public health risks. Local sources report a constant rotation of occupants, contributing to a persistent presence of individuals in the surrounding area. For the past four months, residents say they have faced ongoing threats, forced robberies, drug dealing, and unsanitary conditions including pest infestations. Some also report break-ins at residential buildings, describing an atmosphere of fear and neglect.
Land Designated for Community Use
The plot, according to municipal urban planning data, is classified for community and local new development facilities. It permits public use for sports, recreation, culture, religion, and health services. Residents argue that the site was intended to host a day centre for the elderly, a plan now derailed by the occupation. Barcelona’s Urban Planning Information Portal (PIU), maintained by the Ajuntament, confirms the zoning status of such plots and offers public access to planning records. The portal was recently updated with enhanced functionality to improve transparency and access to urban data.
Neighbourhood Mobilisation Underway
In response, residents have gathered 1,300 signatures demanding the Barcelona City Council dismantle the settlement. They plan to collect further support in the coming week and warn that if no action is taken, they may organise street closures and demonstrations.
We receive constant threats. There is dirt, pests, dealing, and forced robberies. We can’t live like this.
Political Pressure Mounts
Daniel Sirera, president of the PP municipal group at the City Council, has called for immediate eviction of the site and others like it across Barcelona. He described the situation on Carrer de Petrarca as the result of years of municipal inaction, warning that the city must not become a "large shantytown."
Evicting does not mean abandoning anyone. We must recover public space and activate social services so vulnerable people can escape these situations.
Sirera stressed that residents have a right to live in safety and dignity, and that unchecked illegal settlements undermine coexistence and the rule of law.
Primary sources: bcnroc.ajuntament.barcelona.cat, ajuntament.barcelona.cat. Reported by metropoliabierta.elespanol.com, metropoliabierta.cat, Metrópoli Abierta - Urban Life.
