In recent times, urban gardens have gained prominence in numerous Spanish cities , establishing themselves as a sustainable alternative for revitalizing public spaces, fostering community spirit, and bringing organic farming closer to the public. Many city councils are committed to these initiatives, which go beyond simply producing food, also promoting educational, environmental, and social values.
Several municipalities have launched new initiatives to make plots available in their urban gardens to residents, associations, and community groups. This trend responds both to growing public demand and to the interest in creating green spaces that promote well-being and social integration through urban agriculture.
San Sebastián de los Reyes: Call for proposals for 94 plots
The San Sebastián de los Reyes City Council has announced the official call for applications for 94 plots in the municipal urban gardens , for the period 2025-2028. The plots are located in three key areas : the FermÃn Garden, the Tempranales neighborhood, and the recently installed plot on Avenida de Navarra. The complete terms and conditions will be available for consultation and application submission starting June 16 .
Residents of the municipality , as well as associations and non-profit organizations, will be eligible to apply for a plot of land. For individuals, the allocation will be determined by a public lottery, while for associations and non-profit organizations, the process will be managed exclusively electronically through the municipal website, requiring a digital certificate.
The submission of documentation is flexible: both electronic and in-person submissions at municipal offices are accepted, adapting to the needs of applicants and respecting each office's summer hours. This initiative is part of the local commitment to environmental sustainability, organic farming, and citizen participation in the use and respect of municipal green spaces.
Jaén: delivery of new plots in the PolÃgono del Valle
Another city embracing urban gardens is Jaén, where 13 community plots have been allocated to groups and residents of the PolÃgono del Valle neighborhood. The project, part of the Community Green Corner program, covers more than 500 square meters and is organized into different plots intended for shared use and cooperation among participants.
Among the main objectives are intergenerational integration and the promotion of values ​​such as solidarity, community, and respect for the rhythms of nature. Those awarded plots will be able to use them for a maximum period of three years, committing to comply with the rules and recommendations of both municipal staff and the council of volunteer gardeners who advise the project.
The high demand , with more than 50 applications for these 13 plots, has led the Jaén City Council to consider expanding the number of plots and extending these projects to other neighborhoods in the city, thus reaffirming the public's interest in urban and community agriculture.
Initiatives in other cities: Barcelona and Valencia
In Barcelona , ​​applications continue to be accepted for the Community Garden Network, aimed at people over 65 and non-profit organizations. Plots of land, ranging from 20 to 40 square meters, are available for four years . The initiative seeks to facilitate social participation in environmental improvement activities, promoting organic farming and urban biodiversity.
These spaces offer not only food production, but also social and educational benefits , improving quality of life, fostering intergenerational connections, and creating new public green spaces. They also include activities for schools, allowing children and young people to learn about agriculture and ecology in a real-world setting.
Meanwhile, in Valencia , the contract has been awarded for the development of the Orriols urban gardens, part of the city's renaturalization program and funded by European funds. This project aims to utilize underutilized land and transform it into spaces for cultivation and community interaction for the neighborhood, reinforcing the city's commitment to a greener and more sustainable city.
The increase in the creation of urban gardens reflects the commitment of Spanish cities to promote sustainability, citizen participation, and the improvement of the urban environment . In addition to fostering self-sufficiency and organic farming, they contribute to strengthening social bonds, promoting environmental values, and improving the quality of urban life.
