Authorisation was finally given for overall expenditure of 30.55 million euros, in annual budgetary items of just over 7.6 million euros between 2021 and 2025, linked to the availability of sufficient credit in the respective municipal budgets. The municipal contribution to the cost of the transformation project at the trade fair complex is for 23.47% of the total.

Necessary extension

The extension and renewal of the Fira Barcelona trade fair sites will increase the current space of 240,000 square metres of floor to 300,000 square metres. The project includes the construction of a two-floor building with 60,000 square metres of floor space at the Gran Via site, connecting with Hall 1 and the Europa Hall via an elevated walkway.

The renovation of the Montjuïc complex is also planned. The Univers Montjuïc project is currently at the study stage and should remodel and modernise the site in line with current trade fair demands.

In addition, and capitalising on its urban character, the intention is to generate new public spaces through a revamp of Av. Reina Maria Cristina and the use of the Palau de Victòria Eugènia for cultural exhibitions.

Commitment from all administrations

Besides Barcelona City Council, the collaboration agreement to modernise and extend Fira Barcelona has been signed by the Government of Catalonia, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat City Council, the Barcelona Metropolitan Area, Barcelona Provincial Council, and the Barcelona Official Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Services and Navigation.

Today’s definitive approval of the amendment to the collaboration agreement rounds off a process which started with the approval of the extension project by the Full Council in December 2019.