Milla Canal is the new project that will transform the surroundings of the Canal de Isabel II in Chamberí into a great sports and cultural axis. With more than one kilometer long and an extension equivalent to a quarter of the Retiro, this initiative of the regional government wants to become a reference for outdoor leisure.
Presented yesterday, Monday, by President Isabel Díaz Ayuso, it contemplates an investment of more than 18 million euros and is part of the Plan Renueva, which also includes other actions in the Community’s sports infrastructures.
Among the objectives is the comprehensive renovation of the current Canal facilities: tennis courts, gymnasiums, paddle tennis areas and spaces for outdoor activities. All this, with improvements in accessibility, safety and urban connection, benefiting the neighbors of Chamberí, Tetuán and Moncloa.
A multifunctional space for all audiences
One of the most striking aspects is the creation of a 2,500 m2 swimming pool “beach” that will operate in summer, located on one of the green areas of the complex. This point has generated some urban debate: in a city like Madrid, where summers reach extreme temperatures, building an outdoor pool without natural shade (without trees, as is now tradition) raises questions about the comfort and sustainability of the space.
Next to the pool, there will be areas for training for the elderly, children’s games, table tennis and cultural walks. In winter, the urban beach will be converted into a sports area. In addition, the new Boix y Morer building will be built, which will house offices and sports halls.
Another of the axes is the connection between the Canal Theaters, Santander Park and the Canal sports areas, promoting a pedestrian and cultural corridor. To this end, the pedestrianization of a section of Bravo Murillo on Sundays will be requested.
The Lozoya River Fountain, a 19th century neoclassical monument located at Bravo Murillo, 49, has also been restored. This action recovers a key piece of Madrid’s heritage, linked to the original project to bring water from the Lozoya River.
Dates and next steps
Work will begin in 2026 and the first improvements will be completed in 2027. Milla Canal aims to change the appearance of the neighborhood, but also invites reflection on how to integrate sustainability and comfort into future urban designs.