By 2025, Barcelona has become a global laboratory for sustainable urban planning thanks to its innovative superblocks model (superilles in Catalan). This project, which began as an experiment in the Poblenou neighborhood, has demonstrated that it is possible to reduce pollution, reclaim public spaces, and improve the quality of life in cities.
What is a Superblock?
A superblock is an urban unit of 9 traditional blocks (approximately 400 x 400 meters) where:
- Through traffic is eliminated: Only residents and services may travel at 10 km/h.
- Space is redistributed: 70% of roads are converted into pedestrian or green areas.
- Sustainable mobility is prioritized: Bicycles, public transport, and shared electric vehicles.
Results in Barcelona (2025): Impressive Data
- 45% reduction in NO₂ (nitrogen dioxide) levels in superblocks.
- 60% drop in traffic accidents.
- 80% increase in the use of public spaces (squares, benches, playgrounds).
- Three times more trips by bike or public transport than before its implementation.
How It Works in Practice
- Reorganized Traffic:
- Cars can only enter/exit within the perimeter.
- Interior streets are for pedestrians, bicycles, and children’s playgrounds.
- Green Infrastructure:
- “Urban forests” with native trees (pines, oaks).
- Fountains and benches made from recycled materials.
- New Services:
- Mobile Hub: Kiosks with charging stations, Wi-Fi, and bicycle rentals.
- Strengthened local commerce: Less competition from large stores.
Cities that are already copying the model
Quito (Ecuador): 5 pilot superblocks in the historic center.
Portland (USA): “Eco-tech” version with integrated solar panels.
Seoul (South Korea): Combination with urban rooftop gardens.
3 Criticisms (and How Barcelona Faced Them)
- “It hurts businesses”:
- Solution: Data shows that 65% of local stores increased sales (more pedestrians = more customers).
- “It’s a traffic chaos”:
- Solution: Improvements to public transportation (new electric bus lines).
- “It only benefits wealthy neighborhoods”:
- Solution: Extension to 30 peripheral neighborhoods by 2025, including Sant Andreu and Nou Barris.
Could It Work in Your City?
Yes, if:
- It has narrow streets and medium-high density (ideal for 5,000-15,000 inhabitants/km²).
- There is political will to reduce cars.
No, if:
- Car culture is deeply rooted (e.g., American cities).
- Alternative transportation infrastructure is lacking.
The Future: Superblocks 2.0
Barcelona is already testing:
- Pavements that generate energy when you walk on them (in Plaça de Glòries).
- Green corridors that connect superblocks with natural parks.
- IoT sensors that measure air quality and adjust automatic irrigation.
How to Bring This Idea to Your Neighborhood
- Organize a neighborhood meeting (this is how the project was born in Barcelona).
- Propose a pilot project of 1-2 blocks with the support of urban planners.
- Use data: Measure pollution and noise before/after.
“Cities are not problems, they are solutions” — Salvador Rueda, creator of the concept.