Catalan Government Announces First IRTA Research Centre in Pyrenees

The Catalan government has announced plans for the first Institute for Food and Agricultural Research and Technology (IRTA) centre in the Catalan Pyrenees, to be established in La Seu d'Urgell. An official presentation is scheduled for 19 February in the town.

The initiative forms part of a broader package of measures unveiled during the Diàlegs forum in Tremp over the weekend, attended by Presidency councillor Albert Dalmau and Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food councillor Òscar Ordeig. Officials described the efforts as reinforcing Catalonia's commitment to the Pyrenees through strategic projects in roads, digital connectivity and agro-food research, aimed at enhancing quality of life, economic opportunities and territorial cohesion.

Òscar Ordeig called the new centre a unique opportunity for the region, serving as a link between producers, scientists and authorities. It will focus on sustaining agricultural activity, promoting local gastronomy, and valorising local products and by-products within a circular economy model. With over 40 years of experience, IRTA will integrate the facility into its nationwide network of 20 applied research centres, advancing rural decentralisation of innovation.

Other announcements at the event targeted infrastructure improvements. The government will launch an informational study and environmental impact assessment for upgrading the N-260 (Pyrenean Axis) road over a 21-kilometre stretch from Xerallo to Pont de Suert. Options include a tunnel variant to bypass the 1,300-metre-high Creu de Perves pass. Estimated at €280 million, the project falls under a state agreement and aims for completion by 2033 to boost mobility, economic activity and road safety.

La Seu d'Urgell will also see access enhancements, including a double-level roundabout at its entrance. Studies continue on a potential tram line linking Andorra to La Seu, possibly extending to the airport.

Digital rollout plans include drafting the first 47-kilometre fibre optic segment along the Transversal Axis from Puigcerdà to La Seu by March for approval and tendering, with the model to cover the full 470-kilometre Pyrenean Axis.