News

The R1 could double its track between Arenys and Blanes to reduce delays

Getting around Barcelona’s coast could be faster and more reliable in the coming years. The Generalitat de Catalunya is considering doubling the track on the R1 Rodalies line between Arenys de Mar and Blanes, a key section for thousands of daily users.

The aim is clear: to reduce delays and increase frequency on a line heavily used both by workers and by people travelling from the Maresme to the city. Double tracking would make it easier to manage train movements and avoid bottlenecks.

The project comes after normal service was restored following Storm Harry, which damaged the infrastructure at the start of the year. The focus is now on planning structural improvements to prevent similar problems in the future.

The study will examine the doubling in phases, giving priority to the most critical points. This would make it possible to start noticing improvements before the whole scheme is completed, especially on sections with the most incidents.

The R1 is one of the network’s most vulnerable lines because of its route beside the sea. Improving it affects not only punctuality but also the ability to respond to high demand in summer periods and at weekends.

If you use the R1, you may see fewer delays and more trains in the future, especially at peak times. It also means greater service stability on days with incidents or bad weather. Although the change will not be immediate, it is a key step towards improving one of the most used routes between the coast and Barcelona.