Barcelona, February 12, 2026 – The Logistics Activities Zone (ZAL) of the Port of Barcelona, managed by Cilsa, has contracted Deurza Consulting to draft a new Special Plan for ZAL Port (BCN) and to update the Special Plan for ZAL Port (Prat). This strategic move by Cilsa, a company co-owned by the Port of Barcelona and Merlin Properties, seeks to integrate the substantial urban and functional evolution that the industrial area has undergone since the approval of its last Special Plan in 2001.
New Railway Complex at the Forefront of Development
One of the most prominent features to be included in the new planning document is the railway complex currently under construction. This complex is primarily located in the old bed of the Llobregat river, adjacent to the ZAL. The Generalitat recently approved the Urban Master Plan (PDU) for this project, which entails an investment of 265 million euros for the construction of five terminals, one of which is already underway, alongside 24 hectares of green zones surrounding the ZAL.
Addressing Urban and Functional Transformations
The technical specifications for the new Special Plan also highlight several other critical developments. These include four specific modifications to the existing Special Plan, the annulment of regulations concerning interlocks by the High Court of Justice of Catalonia (TSJC), the implementation of Barcelona Metro’s Line 9, changes in the area’s morphology and administrative conditions, and a significant transformation in logistical dynamics and building formats utilized by operators.
Regulatory Compliance and Future Planning
Furthermore, due to regulatory changes since 2001, any modification to the Special Plan must now incorporate an assessment of generated mobility, an environmental report, and a gender impact assessment. These requirements align with current urban, environmental, and equality regulations, ensuring a comprehensive and responsible approach to development.
The tender for this project was awarded for 116,250 euros. The drafting of the Special Plan for ZAL Port (BCN) is estimated to take 12 months, while the updated Special Plan for ZAL Port (Prat) is expected to be completed within 18 months.
Impact on Barcelona’s Logistics Landscape
This initiative underscores Barcelona’s commitment to enhancing its logistical infrastructure and adapting to modern urban and functional demands. The integration of the new railway node and the comprehensive review of the ZAL’s planning framework are expected to significantly bolster the region’s position as a key logistics hub in the Mediterranean.
The Port of Barcelona continues to be a vital economic engine for Catalonia, and these developments are poised to further improve its efficiency and connectivity, benefiting both local businesses and international trade. The focus on sustainability, innovation, and decarbonization within these plans reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban and industrial development.
The ongoing transformations are not only about physical infrastructure but also about creating a more resilient and adaptable logistics ecosystem capable of meeting future challenges and opportunities. The involvement of various stakeholders and adherence to stringent regulatory standards ensure that the ZAL’s evolution is both strategic and sustainable.
The new Special Plan will serve as a foundational document guiding the ZAL’s growth and operational efficiency for the coming decades, ensuring that Barcelona remains at the forefront of logistics innovation in Europe.
Source: https://www.diarioelcanal.com/la-zal-de-barcelona-adjudica-un-nuevo-plan-especial-para-sus-ultimas-transformaciones/
