Walk north along the sea from Barceloneta and the promenade is almost continuous: Port Olímpic, Bogatell, Mar Bella…
At Bac de Roda, however, the landscape changes abruptly. The promenade gives way to large paved areas, access roads and what until recently looked like an improvised car park.
Barcelona is now transforming this last unfinished section of its waterfront.
A story that began in 1992
The 1992 Olympic Games profoundly changed Barcelona’s relationship with the Mediterranean. Part of the former industrial shoreline was redeveloped, the beaches were reclaimed for residents and the Vila Olímpica was created.
That opening towards the sea shaped the Barcelona we know today. Yet a long stretch between Bac de Roda and the Fòrum remained far less inviting than the rest of the coast.
More than thirty years after the Games, the city is finally completing that transformation.
A major green promenade
Work began in July 2025 on the section between Bac de Roda and the Fòrum marine platform. Completion is scheduled for spring 2027.
The project includes a pedestrian promenade at least 12 metres wide, a lane for bicycles and skaters, close to 1,000 trees, sports areas, play spaces, places to rest and beach bars.
Projection of the future passeig de la Mar Bella — visual: Barcelona City Council.
The scheme is also intended to better protect Nova Mar Bella and Llevant beaches. Part of the existing wall will be removed to return space to the sand, while other sections will be reinforced against waves and storms.
In time, the redevelopment of the Fòrum platform should extend the promenade and create a continuous coastal route to the Besòs.
What it will change
For residents of Poblenou, Diagonal Mar and the Front Marítim, the difference will be tangible: more greenery, new public uses and, above all, the ability to follow the sea without feeling that Barcelona stops at Bac de Roda.
For anyone considering living or buying in this area, the project is worth following. It should improve how this part of the coast looks and works, without making every street equal: proximity to the ronda Litoral, noise, wind and access will still matter.
Barcelona turned towards the sea in 1992. With this new waterfront, it is finally finishing the job.