Andorra la Vella Children's Council Unanimously Approves Student Proposals for Green Spaces and Inclusive Parks

Andorra la Vella's children's council unanimously approved student proposals on Friday for expanded green spaces, inclusive parks, and year-round leisure areas, including an indoor communal park within the Espai Capital development.

The gathering, led by councillor for Social Affairs, Youth and Public Space Maria Nazzaro and deputy consul Olalla Losada, featured representatives from six schools: Escola Francesa d'Andorra la Vella, Escola Francesa de Santa Coloma, British College of Andorra, Col·legi Maria Janer, Col·legi Sant Ermengol, and Escola Andorrana d'Andorra la Vella. Participants refined their ideas through discussion, securing approval for all—mostly by consensus.

Key suggestions included revitalizing Parc Central with better security, shaded spots, picnic areas, and water features from Escola Francesa d'Andorra la Vella pupils. Those from Escola Francesa de Santa Coloma called for an inclusive park nearby, with play structures suited to all ages and wheelchair users, addressing the limits of the existing toddler-only space. Col·legi Sant Ermengol pitched the 'Parc de les Sensacions' at Parc Central, using recycled materials for sensory experiences like aromatic plants, tactile surfaces, and visual tricks linked to the five senses.

British College students, including Àlex, advocated an indoor intergenerational park for constant use despite weather constraints. Losada praised its timing, as Espai Capital remains in the preliminary phase with architects Altura, ahead of a late-May presentation. She pointed to flexible spaces, such as the multipurpose room under the future Casa Pairal, and stressed incorporating school and community input to foster ongoing activity beyond events.

Col·legi Maria Janer proposed a temporary educational maze at Plaça del Poble, featuring Andorra-themed questions to merge play with cultural learning—suitable for newcomers and visitors. Losada noted its feasibility, bolstered by recent surveillance cameras, and suggested links to inter-school events. Escola Andorrana recommended vertical gardens on facades to enhance urban greenery and air quality.

During the session, Losada also updated on riverwalk renovations, proceeding in phases to minimize disruption in this busy area, ensuring parts stay open. She addressed civility concerns, citing vandalism issues and new cameras at Plaça del Poble for prevention. The parish highlighted shared responsibility across generations, announcing an intergenerational participatory council on May 14 at the Congress Centre and a June 5 closing event at Estadi Comunal Joan Samarra Vila to honor participants. A tree sponsorship program underscored schools' green commitments.

Nazzaro and Losada praised the students' engagement and proposal quality, focused on sustainability and daily spaces. The parish will now assess implementation paths.