Shopkeeper Laments Decline of La Seu d'Urgell's Historic Carrer dels Canonges

A shopkeeper in La Seu d'Urgell has voiced deep concern over the gradual decline of Carrer dels Canonges, a historic street in the city's old town alongside Carrer Major. Describing a daily sense of sadness rather than mere anger, the local business owner points to accumulating problems including damaged pavements, poor maintenance, litter buildup, and inadequate lighting. These issues, though small individually, have combined to erode the area's appeal for residents, workers, and visitors alike.

The centre històric, heart of La Seu d'Urgell, should serve as a vibrant hub for strolling, shopping, and casual gatherings, the writer argues. Yet residents and traders feel it has been sidelined by municipal priorities despite repeated promises. The street holds strong potential as a driver of social and economic activity, but current neglect fosters a pervasive sense of pity for what could be.

This comes amid hopes pinned on a new subsidy from the Pla de Barris programme, intended to fund improvements to streets, public spaces, and services. For it to succeed, the shopkeeper urges close coordination with neighbours and businesses, who know the area intimately and face its challenges firsthand. Decisions cannot be imposed unilaterally by the town hall, which has so far left the centre overlooked.

The plea ties into broader ambitions: La Seu d'Urgell is pursuing UNESCO World Heritage status for the Catedral de Santa Maria. Success demands that surrounding areas match the monument's prestige, with streets like Carrer dels Canonges projecting care rather than neglect. Revitalising them would bolster local commerce, community life, and public dignity, the writer contends.

Such efforts require political will, sensitivity, and respect for those sustaining the old town amid hardships. Written from affection rather than outrage, the piece calls for action before the area's historic promise fades entirely.