New Access System Installed at CEM Espanya Industrial
The Sants-Montjuïc District has removed the controversial revolving door at the entrance of Espanya Industrial park on Carrer de Muntadas, corner of Plaça d'Antoni Pérez i Moya. The door, which had allowed users of the Municipal Sports Centre (CEM) to exit after park hours, was frequently vandalised to gain unauthorised night-time entry. As of this week, the revolving door has been replaced with a standard metal door featuring a grate and lock. This new access point connects directly to the CEM via a segregated corridor, allowing users to leave the facility when the park is closed without compromising security. The change follows over two decades of complaints from local residents, particularly from the Hostafrancs Neighbours' Association, who cited persistent noise, litter and anti-social behaviour linked to the old mechanism.
Residents Welcome Change, Call for Further Measures
Conxita Pérez, representative of the Hostafrancs Neighbours' Association, welcomed the update, stating:
"This had been requested for over 20 years, because this revolving door caused noise, people forced it open, and it served no purpose, and now it's very good and we are very happy."
She added that improvements in park behaviour have already been observed since the installation. Josep Espín, president of the Hostafrancs Federation, also praised the move, calling it appropriate to separate access between the park and the sports facility. The project, which cost €25,000, forms part of a broader plan to improve safety and usability at the site. According to district communications shared with local groups, the current solution is transitional, with plans for a permanent corridor linking the CEM directly to Carrer de Muntadas still in development. However, residents continue to demand increased surveillance during daytime and evening hours to maintain the improvements. The park, built between 1982 and 1985, remains a key green space in the Sants area, offering amenities including playgrounds, sports courts and a dog area.
Sources: El 3 (el3.cat), Ajuntament de Barcelona, RH-administrador.
