A small oasis in danger
The Doctor Comas i Llaberia Gardens, located in the Vallcarca i els Penitents neighborhood in Barcelona, represent a small green oasis in the middle of the city. Despite their small size of approximately 1,600 square meters, these gardens are known for their lush vegetation, which makes them an ideal refuge during the hottest months.
However, the existence of this green space is threatened by plans to build an institute in its current location. Although the intention is to provide new educational facilities to the neighbourhood, the local community has expressed strong opposition to the destruction of the gardens.
A fight of decades
The history of these gardens has been marked by a long fight for their conservation. Despite being land designated as equipment, it has been used and recognized as a garden for almost half a century. The community has highlighted the improvements made by the municipal government, such as the installation of children’s games, a ramp to overcome unevenness, petanque courts and the planting of trees, which have contributed to its value as a public space.
The neighbors have filed lawsuits and have sought alternatives to preserve the gardens, including the request to declare them as a climate refuge and the request to be considered a Cultural Asset of Local Interest (BCIL). These actions seek to guarantee the conservation of this green space so appreciated by the community.
Municipal perspective
From the City Council, it is highlighted that the construction of the institute responds to a historical demand from the entities and the educational community of the neighborhood. The importance of providing local education is emphasized, especially considering the absence of an institute in the neighborhood to date. In addition, the political consensus around this initiative is mentioned, supporting the imminent start of the works.
It is noted that the new institute has already begun to operate provisionally in the facilities of the Escola Pare Poveda, with a high demand for places. Likewise, the recent inauguration of the Margaret Michaelis Gardens stands out as compensation for the transformation of the Doctor Comas i Llaberia Gardens.
The fight continues
Despite divergent perspectives, the local community remains firm in its determination to preserve the Doctor Comas i Llaberia Gardens. Rallies have been announced and legal and administrative actions have been taken to protect this green space. Neighbors hope that their efforts will bear fruit and that the gardens can be preserved for future generations.
