PROJECTS

Social return strategy to promote the local economy in Ciutat Vella

Local Action

In a context marked by the reactivation of the post-pandemic tourism sector, the Ciutat Vella district is committed to a responsible and local tourism model that favors the social and economic return of the activity. With this project, Aethnic develops various activities with local actors in the district to identify key needs and establish strategic actions for the future.

In 2023, Barcelona City Council commissions Aethnic with a study to identify strategic recommendations to promote the local economy in the Ciutat Vella district, an area highly affected by tourist pressure and the consequent gentrification dynamics.

Between the months of May and September 2023, Aethnic develops various activities with the local agents of the district in order to identify strategic opportunities that allow to improve the social return of tourism between the hotel sector, cultural facilities and the commercial fabric.

Background

The Ciutat Vella district in Barcelona faces significant challenges in terms of local economy and community development. The need to promote the local economy has emerged as a vital response to strengthen the socio-economic fabric of this emblematic area of the city.

Targets

Identify the needs and opportunities of the different sectors involved in the local economy of Ciutat Vella.
Develop strategies to promote collaboration between the hotel sector, cultural facilities and local trade.
Provide specific recommendations to strengthen the local economy and encourage social return to the district.

Activities Carried Out

Between the months of May and September 2023, the following activities are carried out:

Development of an initial meeting to evaluate the documentation provided by the district and design the corresponding work plan .
Establishing the general and specific objectives of the research.
Creation of different working groups with key actors in the district.
Analysis of the results obtained through the working groups.
Review of previous studies for comparison of results .
Research of good practices at national and international level for the definition of strategic recommendations.

Value proposition

results

By carrying out this project it was possible to:

Identify the challenges, opportunities and needs to strengthen the local economy of the district through tourism activity.
Generate concrete and specific recommendations to promote collaboration between the different sectors of the economy.
Develop a practical guide to implement proximity economy strategies in the Ciutat Vella district.

Future perspectives

We hope that the proposed strategic recommendations will contribute significantly to the economic and social development of Ciutat Vella, promoting a fairer, more sustainable economy connected to the local community.