Poblenou superilla marks ten years of urban transformation in Barcelona

The Poblenou superilla in Barcelona marks its tenth anniversary, evolving from a controversial urban experiment into a widely accepted model for city living. Launched in September 2016 in the Sant Martí district, the project aimed to group city blocks to restrict through-traffic and reclaim street space for pedestrians.

Initially, the initiative faced significant opposition from local residents, merchants, and transport workers. Critics formed platforms to protest the changes, citing concerns over lost customers and restricted loading and unloading zones. However, a decade later, public opinion has shifted toward the positive. Residents now value the increased space for walking, playing, and social interaction, alongside reduced vehicle traffic.

Local workers have also adapted to the new system. Transport professionals noted that adjusted schedules, particularly during summer, allow for better work-life balance and help avoid extreme heat. This pilot project serves as a foundation for Barcelona’s broader municipal mobility plan, which envisions the implementation of 503 superilles across the city.