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The closure of Collserola sparks protests after months of restrictions
The closure of much of Collserola due to the African swine fever outbreak continues to disrupt the routine of thousands of residents in the metropolitan area. After several months of restrictions, pressure is growing to progressively reopen some paths without compromising health control or the operation’s safety.
The Collserola Oberta platform is calling for greater transparency, measurable results, and a timetable for reopening. Its members do not question the existence of the outbreak, but believe that restrictions should be reviewed according to the situation in each area and that controlled use should be allowed where the risk is lower.
The discontent was clear during a march held in Cerdanyola del Vallès, where around 200 people entered a restricted forest track. The demonstration showed just how much the closure affects walkers, cyclists, and local residents who used the park as a regular place for exercise and relaxation.
Sant Cugat has also increased institutional pressure. Its mayor, Josep Maria Vallès, points out that around 5,000 residents used Collserola every day and calls for a balance between fighting the virus and allowing partial openings in areas such as Pi d’en Xandri, Torrenegra, or the Volpelleres forest.
The controversy grew after a film shoot was authorised in a wooded area while regular access for residents remained prohibited. The local council believes that this exception shows that protocols can be established for certain uses without lifting all restrictions.
The closure has also forced changes to celebrations and children’s activities. Sant Medir had to adapt its route to the urban environment, and the children’s march planned for October will also be unable to use its usual paths. Social organisations have replaced excursions with activities within the city.
The Generalitat is maintaining restrictions in 19 municipalities for health and safety reasons. The operation continues to capture wild boar using traps and firearms, so the presence of visitors in certain areas could put both the teams and anyone entering the forest at risk.
Since the start of the outbreak, more than 10,000 wild boar have been tested and 373 have tested positive. The agriculture department maintains that the measures are based on technical criteria and that the movement of people, bicycles, or vehicles could help spread contaminated material outside the perimeter.
The situation has left paths closed, activities moved onto tarmac, and a public running out of patience. The challenge will be to find a gradual reopening that restores some social use to Collserola without enabling the spread of a disease that is still not under control.