Marina Cervera: Evolution of Urban Planning and Contemporary Developments

Marina Cervera recently spoke at the NZILA Wānanga about the ongoing evolution of Barcelona's urban landscape. As an urban planner and landscape architect, Marina's has been instrumental in the design and implementation of a number of projects in Barcelona. Her work emphasises the importance of community involvement, ensuring that public spaces meet the needs and preferences of local residents, as well as improving environmental sustainability and public health.

Origins and Principles of the Cerdá Plan

In 1859, Ildefons Cerdá, a Spanish engineer and urban planner, was commissioned to develop a comprehensive urban expansion plan for Barcelona. At the time, the city was confined within its medieval walls, resulting in overcrowding, poor sanitation, and limited public spaces. Cerdá’s plan, known as the Eixample ("Expansion"), was grounded in principles of functionality, social equality, and accessibility.

He introduced a grid system with wide streets, which improved air circulation and light penetration, and facilitated transportation. The blocks, or "manzanas," were designed to be chamfered at the corners, enhancing visibility and traffic flow. This layout not only addressed health concerns but also anticipated the needs of a growing industrial city.

Central to Cerdá's plan was the integration of green spaces. He envisioned every block containing an interior garden, creating communal spaces and promoting greenery within the urban fabric. This idea was revolutionary, emphasising the importance of public health and well-being. Cerdá also championed mixed-use development, where residential, commercial, and industrial spaces coexisted harmoniously, fostering a vibrant, integrated community.

Despite initial resistance from local authorities and landowners, the Cerdá Plan was eventually implemented, transforming Barcelona into a model of modern urbanism. The Eixample district, characterised by its distinctive octagonal blocks, wide streets, and uniformity, remains an exemplar of Cerdá's innovative approach.

Modern Developments within the Barcelona City Council

The enduring principles of the Cerdá Plan continue to guide urban development in Barcelona. However, modern challenges such as climate change, traffic congestion, and housing shortages necessitate new adaptations. The Barcelona City Council has launched several initiatives to address these issues while respecting Cerdá's original vision.

Aerial photo of Barcelona’s Superblocks.

One of the most notable programs is the Superblocks (Superilles) initiative. This project aims to reduce traffic and enhance public spaces by restricting vehicle traffic within designated nine-block areas. Superblocks prioritise pedestrians and cyclists, creating safer, more livable neighborhoods, aligning with Cerdá's emphasis on green spaces and public health, aiming to reduce pollution and foster community interactions.

In addition to the Superblocks, the council has prioritised green infrastructure. Projects like the "Green Axes" plan seek to transform major streets into green corridors, integrating parks, green roofs, and urban gardens into the city's landscape. While reducing pollution and enhancing biodiversity this initiative links closely with the council’s sustainable mobility focus with an expansion of bike lanes, improved public transportation, and the introduction of electric buses as part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion. Embracing ‘smart city’ technological initiatives, the council utilises sensors and data analytics to optimize traffic management, waste collection, and energy consumption. Enhancing the efficiency of urban operations improves the quality of life for residents, ensuring that Barcelona remains at the forefront of innovative urban development.

Marina Cervera's Work

As she discussed in her presentation, Marina played a key role in the implementation of the Superblocks program. Her expertise in landscape architecture has been crucial in redesigning streets and public spaces within Superblocks, creating pedestrian-friendly environments that promote social interactions and community well-being.

Another one of Marina’s recent projects (2023) is the Montjuïc Park Trail Masterplan, an historic green space in Barcelona. Under her guidance, the park has been transformed into a vibrant, multifunctional space that accommodates recreational activities, cultural events, and biodiversity conservation. This project reflects her holistic approach to urban planning, where ecological sustainability, social inclusivity, and cultural heritage are seamlessly integrated.

In addition to her practical contributions, Marina is an advocate for sustainable urban development and has been actively involved in academic and professional circles. Through her advocacy, Marina helps to shape the discourse on urban development, ensuring that sustainability and social equity remain central themes.