Businesses in Barcelona's Sant Antoni district are demanding an urgent, comprehensive security and community plan. This follows a fatal stabbing in El Raval after a robbery in Sant Antoni, highlighting worsening conditions in the Eixample neighbourhood. The Sant Antoni Traders' Association stated the situation is "completely unsustainable for community life."
The association, representing 261 establishments, reported severe issues. These include insecurity, illegal street vending, anti-social behaviour, homelessness, and public space degradation. These problems affect various streets and squares, particularly in lower Sant Antoni and around Ronda de Sant Pau. The group states these issues have been "entrenched for years" and "worsened in recent months." This situation generates a "growing feeling of fear and insecurity" among residents and visitors, especially after 20:00. The persistent problems directly impact the daily operations of businesses and the well-being of their employees.
Jordi Arias, president of Sant Antoni Comerç, stressed the urgency of the situation. He stated, "The situation is not new, but it has become chronic and has worsened in recent months. Traders and residents need a clear, coordinated, and continuous response." Arias added that the issue extends beyond mere security concerns. It also involves community life, the dignity of public spaces, and the long-term commercial future of the neighbourhood.
Calls for Increased Police Presence
The Sant Antoni Traders' Association is calling for specific actions from authorities. They demand an "urgent, coordinated, and sustained response" from the City Council and regional government. The association specifically requests 24-hour fixed patrols. These patrols should involve the Urban Guard and/or the Catalan Police on Ronda de Sant Pau.
Additionally, the association seeks increased police presence and targeted operations against crime. These should focus on lower Sant Antoni, particularly Aldana, Marquès de Campo Sagrado, and Parlament streets. This area spans between Ronda de Sant Pau and Comte Borrell street. The traders consider real and effective coordination between the Eixample and Ciutat Vella districts "essential." This is because the problems often cross administrative boundaries, requiring a unified approach.
Political Pressure Mounts
Meanwhile, Dani Sirera, the lead candidate for the Partido Popular in Barcelona, has called for a resignation. On Tuesday morning, Sirera demanded that Albert Batlle step down. Batlle serves as Deputy Mayor for Prevention and Security and Councillor for Ciutat Vella. Sirera launched the "Safe Streets" campaign in El Raval. He announced that the Partido Popular will present its security proposals across all Barcelona districts. These proposals include establishing mobile mini-offices in "most problematic" areas. This political intervention highlights the growing public concern over safety in the city.
The calls from Sant Antoni's business community and political figures underscore the pressing need for action. Authorities face increasing pressure to implement a comprehensive strategy. This strategy must address the complex issues of insecurity and anti-social behaviour in Barcelona's central districts.
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Originally published by El Nacional. Read original article.
