San Fernando de Henares, Spain – A collaborative study involving the Technical School of Architecture of Madrid (ETSAM) and local resident associations is shedding new light on the ongoing repercussions of the construction of Metro Line 7B in San Fernando de Henares. The research, initiated by the FRAVM (Federación de Asociaciones Vecinales de Madrid) and the Parque Henares Neighborhood Association, aims to assess the hydrological, structural, and urban impacts of the metro line on the area.
The project, which will be presented on , at Plaza de Fernando VI, stems from a methodology known as Learning and Service (APS), combining academic learning with community engagement. A key component of the study focuses on the work of Borja López Cuevas, an ETSAM student and resident of San Fernando de Henares, who has concentrated on the extensive damage caused by the Line 7B project.
According to data presented by the associations, the construction of Line 7B has affected over 600 homes, led to the displacement of 217 residents, and necessitated the demolition of 73 residential buildings and several commercial properties. The line has also experienced nine service interruptions in the last 17 years, highlighting the persistent instability in the area.
The issues stem from the original construction of the Metro Este extension of Line 7 in 2007, spearheaded by then-President Esperanza Aguirre. Shortly after its inauguration, damage began to appear in buildings above the tunnel in San Fernando de Henares. The root cause was identified as unstable ground conditions that facilitated water infiltration, compromising the structural integrity of nearby properties.
The Community of Madrid has already allocated significant resources to address the crisis. As of , approximately €7 million in financial compensation had been paid to affected residents, with 55 out of 76 opened cases settled. An additional €500,000 has been earmarked for the economic revitalization of local businesses and shops impacted by the disruptions. The Community of Madrid has begun offering psychological support services to residents, recognizing the emotional toll of the ongoing situation, with a dedicated space established within the town’s citizens’ information office.
However, the total cost to the regional government is now estimated to exceed €70 million. The new study commissioned by the Madrid government, and conducted by the Polytechnic University of Madrid, utilizes Satellite Radar Interferometry (InSAR) technology to precisely measure ground deformation with millimeter accuracy. By comparing data from 2003 to 2025, researchers aim to identify vulnerable areas and propose future monitoring strategies.
The InSAR technique allows for the detection of subtle changes in the terrain and structures, providing a detailed assessment of the area’s “structural health.” The study, offered at no cost to the government, is intended to inform future actions and mitigate further risks. The current President, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, inherited this complex issue and has emphasized the government’s commitment to finding a “firm solution” for affected citizens.
The Community of Madrid approved an investment of €2.506.295 in for actions in eight streets of San Fernando de Henares, focusing on land consolidation, building rehabilitation, and housing solutions for those affected by Line 7B. This investment aims to improve safety and address the long-term consequences of the metro line’s construction.
The scale of the disruption extends beyond residential properties. The study highlights the loss of public spaces and the closure of businesses, underscoring the broader economic impact on the community. The ongoing issues have prompted calls for a comprehensive assessment of infrastructure projects in areas with unstable geological conditions. The results of the ETSAM study are anticipated to provide valuable insights into the long-term evolution of the situation and inform future urban planning decisions in San Fernando de Henares and potentially other areas of Madrid.
The situation in San Fernando de Henares serves as a cautionary tale regarding the importance of thorough geological surveys and risk assessments prior to large-scale infrastructure projects. The long-term financial and social costs associated with addressing unforeseen consequences can be substantial, as evidenced by the escalating expenses and the displacement of residents in this case. The Community of Madrid’s commitment to providing financial compensation and psychological support represents a step towards mitigating the impact on affected individuals, but the underlying structural issues require continued attention and innovative solutions.
