In Barcelona, the City Council, through the Institut Barcelona Esports (IBE), has successfully completed the renovation of the La Satalia and Carmel 7-a-side soccer fields. These facilities, located in the districts of *Sants-Montjuïc* and *Horta-Guinardó*, respectively, have seen their old turfs replaced by the latest generation of artificial grass. This change not only improves the technical conditions for soccer, but also responds to IBE’s commitment to keep the city’s sports infrastructures up to date.
Innovations in artificial turf
The new turf installed on both fields stands out for its advanced technology. With a 20 mm thick prefabricated elastic base, this turf is made of cross-linked polyethylene foam. The most interesting thing is that all the material comes from production waste, making this a sustainable project free of polluting substances.
The new 40 mm surface does not use SBR rubber, a significant advance that is a step ahead of EU regulations that will ban the use of microplastics by 2030. Instead, it is filled only with silica sand and stands out for its density and strength, ensuring greater durability and less need for maintenance. Thus contributing to more efficient facility management.
Additional facility improvements
In addition to turf replacement, the fields have undergone other upgrades. At La Satalia, the old goals were replaced with new ones, the perimeter gutters were improved and the irrigation system was modernized. El Carmel, meanwhile, also saw its goals and nets replaced, in addition to the installation of an innovative cannon irrigation system, which includes a water tank and chlorination.
These renovations involved a significant investment. The cost for La Satalia amounted to €183,955.36, including VAT, while the improvements at Carmel cost €221,076.81. However, it is not only 7-a-side soccer users who benefit from these upgrades. New turf was also installed on the 11-a-side soccer fields at both locations in recent years; La Satalia in 2019 and Carmel in 2021.
A constant legacy of sporting improvement
These renovations are not isolated cases. They are part of a broader strategy of the Institut Barcelona Esports to constantly improve the city’s sports infrastructure. In fact, in recent years, numerous renovations of fields have been implemented in different parts of the city. These include facilities such as the Campo Municipal de Fútbol la Báscula, Vallvidrera, Puerta, Bon Pastor, Nuevo Cerdeña, among others.
Each project reinforces the commitment of the Barcelona City Council to dignify sports in its neighborhoods, understanding that soccer is a valuable space for socialization and that it is vital to have adequate facilities. Moreover, these efforts not only benefit the athletes, but also help strengthen the sense of community by providing renewed places to gather and enjoy sports.
Future of sports facilities in Barcelona
Addressing the growing demand for modern and sustainable sports venues is a priority for Barcelona. Each change and improvement not only responds to technical needs, but also carries with it a clear message of respect for the environment and an emphasis on sustainability. Adapting to European regulations is only part of it, the essential thing is to create a lasting legacy.
As technology advances and new tools emerge, Barcelona can be expected to continue to be a pioneer in ensuring that its sports facilities are not only functional, but also an example of resilience and sustainability. These efforts ensure that citizens can enjoy sport in optimal conditions, while strengthening social cohesion and community well-being.
Barcelona’s unwavering commitment shows no signs of abating. On the contrary, it is reaffirmed with each completed project, making the city a role model for other cities seeking to balance sport, community and sustainability.
