Local trade in crisis
With more than 93,000 commercial establishments, Barcelona is very proud of its offer. However, the shops in historic neighborhoods are struggling to survive in the face of the unstoppable rise of online trade. While the tourist areas prosper, the rest of the local shops are in a precarious situation, demonstrating the lack of effective strategies by local authorities.
Unequal growth in the commercial sector
According to Cadastre, Barcelona has seen a moderate growth of 10% in the total number of commercial premises for the last 15 years. However, most of this expansion has focused on the hospitality industry and tourism services, leaving a minimum growth of 5% in other sectors. This reflects a change of preferences in consumption, where more and more citizens have opted for the comfort of online purchases.
Mobility challenges in the city
The paradox of Barcelona becomes clear: despite being a nerve point of Catalonia, the city is becoming a difficult place. Traffic congestion makes it easier to reach it from other European capitals than from certain parts of Catalonia. This problem is exacerbated by the urban decisions of the current government, which have made traffic more complicated.
Tram: An old solution?
The tram, a 19th -century transport means of transport, has become a symbol of inadequate solutions for contemporary problems. Instead of improving the connection between neighborhoods, he has created more obstacles than facilities, leaving the frustrated citizens.
Compare with Madrid
While Barcelona fights with its mobility, Madrid observes with some satisfaction. The Spanish capital has found a balance between private traffic and public transport, a strategy that seems unattainable in Barcelona. It is paradoxical that, despite the reduction of private vehicles, the streets of Barcelona are still saturated.
Gentrification and housing
The impact of municipal inaction on housing has caused many young people to leave the city, worsening gentrification and deteriorating the social fabric. Traditional neighborhoods are in decline, with an aging population and an identity that is increasingly transformed by non -roar expats.
A sustainable future for Barcelona
It is imperative that Barcelona evolve towards a 21st century sustainable city model. This involves regenerating its architectural heritage and integrating modern technologies, such as renewable energy and artificial intelligence solutions, to address mobility problems. In addition, it must be taken urgently to eradicate the shame of extreme poverty, with more than 1,384 homeless people in their streets.
