Salou, one of Catalonia’s most iconic tourist destinations, has officially been approved to undergo a large-scale urban transformation project.
Local authorities confirmed earlier today that the long-awaited green light was given for the “Plan de Renovación Integral de Salou” (PRIS),
a comprehensive revitalization effort that promises to reshape the city’s infrastructure, transportation, and tourism outlook for the next decade.
This monumental project is not only a vote of confidence in Salou’s future but also a reflection of Catalonia’s broader commitment to sustainable urban planning and environmental responsibility.
Backed by funding from both the Generalitat de Catalunya and private investors, the plan includes upgrades to Salou’s aging roadways, the construction of new pedestrian-friendly areas,
and the expansion of green public spaces, aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
One of the most eagerly anticipated parts of the initiative is the modernization of the beachfront promenade—Paseo Jaume I—which draws millions of tourists each summer.
The new design incorporates more shade, energy-efficient lighting, water-saving irrigation systems, and better accessibility features. A renewed
emphasis on local Catalan culture will also be reflected through public art installations and curated spaces for festivals, performances, and community engagement.
Transport infrastructure is another pillar of this transformative project. A key component is the improved integration of Salou’s local train station with the regional rail network, making it easier for travelers to commute from cities like Tarragona and Barcelona. Additional bus routes and cycling lanes will complement the push for a car-reduced city center, aligning with the EU’s long-term climate goals.
The mayor of Salou, Pere Granados, expressed immense optimism during a press briefing held Thursday morning. “We are standing on the threshold of a new era for Salou. This transformation is not just about aesthetics—it’s about sustainability, economic growth, and enhancing the wellbeing of everyone who calls this city home, even if just for a summer,” he said.
Tourism stakeholders are equally enthusiastic, especially as the plan coincides with an upswing in international arrivals post-pandemic. Recent statistics from the Catalan Tourism Board show a 17% year-on-year increase in visitor numbers to Salou, driven largely by renewed interest from British, French, and Dutch holidaymakers. Experts believe that this urban overhaul could boost those figures even further, reinforcing Salou’s status as a top-tier Mediterranean destination.
As construction gears up to begin in phases starting this fall, residents have been invited to attend town hall meetings and offer feedback on specific parts of the design. With strong community engagement and a clear blueprint for change, Salou’s upcoming evolution is shaping up to be not just a facelift, but a forward-thinking leap into a more connected, eco-friendly future.
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