La Seu d'Urgell Squat Fears Debunked as Construction Workers Occupy Vacant Block

Residents in La Seu d'Urgell raised concerns over lights and activity at a long-vacant apartment block in Plaça Europa, sparking fears of a fresh squat. The local town hall has ruled out illegal occupation, instead confirming that construction workers are temporarily staying on site.

Municipal sources revealed that around 20 workers from the project are housed across three floors of the building. The structure, which had stood unfinished since 2007 and later deteriorated amid years of squatting, is now undergoing final works by a construction firm backed by an investment fund. The goal is to complete the original plan—approved years ago and halted when 97% complete—and market about 40 homes. Officials have issued only a minor works permit for finishing the shell, with no habitation certificate yet in place.

The town hall stressed it holds no responsibility for the workers' living arrangements, focusing solely on dispelling rumours of intruders. Mayor Joan Barrera acknowledged the public alarm over a potential repeat of past occupations. While provisional water and electricity supplies may be connected, questions persist over the workers' conditions, especially without full habitability approval. Witnesses reported seeing people carrying mattresses and belongings, with some suggesting workers' families stayed briefly.

Attempts to reach the construction firm for clarification on labour standards and the setup have so far failed. The council used its police social media to publicly deny any new squat, emphasising the site's legitimate activity.