Construction Starts in Sant Francesc: A Year of Noise, Life Afterwards?

The construction site is open — and the city carries on

In the early morning of September 3 the first crane could be heard in Carrer de Sant Francesc, the engines of the excavators and the soft rustle of plastic tarps. There was still the smell of fresh pastries from Es Forn, the baker shook his head but stayed calm: 'As long as they keep the market days in the plan, it'll work.' The Inca city council has officially begun work on the historic centre — with a clear goal: a new water and sewage system, level sidewalks, better lighting and more space for trees and accessibility.

Briefly, plainly: What exactly will be done

On paper: €1.33 million, funded by the Spanish Ministry of Housing, completion planned for September 2026. In practice: old pipes out, new ones in; curbs at street level, fewer steps; new streetlights, tree pits, crossings for wheelchairs and prams. The works are planned to take place in sections so that the market and the Plaça are not completely closed — a necessary but not simple logistical task, as discussed in Plaça Mercat: 20 Months of Construction — Renovation Under Review.

Central question: Modernization without loss?

This is the question many neighbours are worried about: Can Sant Francesc become more modern and accessible while still remaining what it is — a lively part of Inca with small shops, market bustle and old cobbles? Or will the neighbourhood turn into a cleaner but interchangeable town centre where the soul disappears a few centimetres under the concrete?

What is often overlooked

Public announcements focus on budget, schedule and site opening hours (mostly 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., nights only in exceptional cases). Less discussed are the practical details that affect everyday life: How will construction waste be removed without blocking the narrow streets? Who compensates for lost stall rents if market sellers have to move? Are there archaeological checks in case old foundations turn up during excavation? And: which materials will be used — do cobblestones and modern curbs fit together?

Voices from the neighbourhood

The old lady on the Plaça said: 'The sewer really needed renewing, but this noise…' A young market vendor worries about his customers: 'If the stall is moved, regular buyers might not come anymore.' Es Forn reacted pragmatically; baker and customers know the sounds, and the scent of freshly baked bread remains a magnet.

Concrete risks — and practical countermeasures

Risks include revenue losses for small shops, short-term parking pressure, restrictions for older people and possible delays until 2026. Solutions are possible and would cost little: a clear phased plan with publicly viewable maps, temporary guarded delivery zones, grants or reduced stall rents for particularly affected vendors, better information for bus drivers and a community liaison person to bundle complaints and react quickly. A site code for limiting noise and dust would also be important — especially in the early morning hours when bakers prepare their dough, as highlighted by Less Christmas Noise in Sa Feixina – Success for Residents, but How Lasting?.

A perspective that hardly anyone mentions

The climate impact: will the new pipes be designed for stronger rain events? Mallorca has experienced heavy downpours in recent years, according to AEMET reports on heavy rainfall in the Balearic Islands; a modernised sewage system can help prevent flooding. Also: can removed paving stones be reused to preserve the historic character? Recycling and local craftsmanship could make the project more sustainable and sympathetic, similar to Construction by the Water: How Clean and Social Will the Port d'Andratx Renovation Be?

How the city can manage it

Communication is key. Event plans, market relocations and timetable changes should not only be posted at city hall but also online, on posters at the market and distributed as flyers in shops. A fixed contact person at the city, regular weekly updates and a small emergency fund for traders would build trust. Archaeological supervision and the use of local materials would show: this is not just modernisation, it's careful design.

Conclusion: Opportunity with side effects

In the short term: more noise, fewer parking spaces, detours. In the medium and long term Sant Francesc can become more livable, accessible and safer. What matters is how the city accompanies the coming months: with transparency, consideration and practical help for those who live and work here every day. If that succeeds, the scent of Es Forn remains, the sidewalks become more comfortable, the trees grow, and even the old lady can stroll across the Plaça more easily.

Tip for the coming months: If you are going to the Plaça: allow a bit more time, maybe call your favourite bakery in advance and pay attention to the signage when visiting the market. A little patience now could bring much easier daily life later.