The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Government of Catalonia have signed a €300 million loan to support the extension of Barcelona’s suburban Line 8, operated by Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC). The investment will finance the construction of a four-kilometre tunnel linking Plaça d’Espanya and Gràcia stations, improving rail connectivity across the Barcelona metropolitan area and strengthening links with surrounding regions including Baix Llobregat, Bages, Anoia, and Vallès Occidental.
The project also includes the development of new stations and the refurbishment of existing ones, with design measures aimed at minimising surface disruption during construction. Once completed, the extension will enhance integration between suburban rail services, metro lines, and the tram network, improving intermodal connectivity and reducing travel times, particularly to the eastern part of the Eixample district.
By improving access to central Barcelona from the Llobregat–Anoia network, the project is expected to make public transport more efficient and attractive, while reducing reliance on private vehicles. This contributes to broader efforts to promote sustainable urban mobility and lower transport-related emissions in the region.
The investment also aligns with the EIB Group’s climate objectives under its strategic roadmap for 2024–2027 and its Climate Bank Roadmap for 2026–2030, supporting long-term decarbonisation and sustainable infrastructure development across Europe.
