A Promising Future for Barcelona Metro
Barcelona is preparing for significant growth in its metro network, with expansion plans that promise to improve connectivity in the city and its surroundings. The Metropolitan Public Transport Authority (ATM) has presented its Master Plan for the period 2021-2030, which includes the addition of new stations to several lines.
Strategic Investments in the Metro
Despite the recent early elections in Catalonia, which has left some budgets pending approval, the Catalan government has planned a significant investment in the expansion of the metro. One of the outstanding actions is the extension of the L1 line, which will extend from Fondo to Lloreda – Sant Crist, including an intermediate station in Montigalà, with an estimated budget of 350 million euros.
What’s new on Line 1
In addition to the extension to Lloreda, the Master Plan foresees that the L1 will reach Badalona Rodalies and connect the Bellvitge Hospital with the Prat Station. The new stops that will be installed are:
– Montigalà Center
– Lloreda St. Crist
– Bufalà
– Badalona Pompeu Fabra
– Badalona
Extensions of Line 2
Line 2 will also be expanded, with plans for an extension linking Sant Antoni with the Logistics Park. This new connection will incorporate six stations, including stops at Plaça del Marquès de la Foronda and Avinguda de l’Estadi.
The Expansion of Line 3
The ATM has proposed the expansion of L3, which will include a new stop on the Besòs side, facilitating the connection between Trinitat Vella and Trinitat Nova, as well as a link between the University Area and Sant Feliu de Llobregat.
What’s new on Line 4
Line 4 will also see growth, with the addition of three new stations between La Pau and La Sagrera. The Department of Territory has initiated the tender process for the drafting of the project, which is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026.
Line 8 and its Impact
The Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya is working on the extension of Line 8, which will connect Gràcia with Plaça d’Espanya. This work, with a budget of around 400 million euros, will include three new stations and a 4.1-kilometre tunnel.
Line 9 revival
After a long period of stoppages, the works on the central section of the L9 have regained momentum. With 12 new scheduled stations, the line promises to connect important points in the city, such as Camp Nou and Hospital de Sant Pau.
Future of Line 10
Line 10, recently extended to the Zona Franca, will continue its route to Pratenc station, located at Barcelona-El Prat airport. The Motors and Camp Nou stops are yet to open.
Reflections on the Growth of the Metro
With these extensions, Barcelona will not only improve its transport infrastructure, but will also enhance access to various areas, favoring economic development and citizen mobility. The metro network will become a key element for the future of the city.