Plans to build a grand entrance to the Sagrada Familia may lead to the demolition of nearby housing blocks. The chief architect claims that the plans for the staircase are based upon original designs by Antoni Gaudi, and will be one of the final parts of the building to be completed by 2026.
Gaudi’s original plans for the Sagrada Familia were lost after his death in 1926, and there have been many controversies as to what Gaudi had intended. One organisation, ‘People affected by the construction of the Sagrada Familia’, is concerned that the construction will lead the eviction of thousands of local residents.
Salvador Barosso, president of the organisation, told Catalan News that he is being evicted “because of the stubbornness of the Sagrada Familia to build a staircase that wasn’t in Gaudi’s plans.”
“We don’t think that in order to finish the basilica all buildings involved must be demolished. But we also think it isn’t likely that all buildings will be saved,” Janet Sanz, Barcelona’s deputy mayor for infrastructure and town planning, commented.
The dispute had been delayed as a result of the pandemic. Construction has, however, been accelerated due to the looming deadline. With only 4 years until the 2026, which will mark 100 years since Gaudi’s death, there is pressure to resolve the dispute soon. Meetings are being planned by the town council to facilitate discussions, and it is likely that the residents will know their fate by 2023.
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