The Besòs Consortium was set up in 1997 to coordinate the transformation of the seafront and riverfront areas through cooperation between different public authorities. The target date for completion was set for 2004, tying in with the Universal Forum of Cultures. The event was a catalyst for a deep-seated process of urban regeneration: the coastline was redeveloped, new infrastructure was created, and the Parc del Fòrum established itself as a popular large public space. The intervention improved connectivity between Barcelona and Sant Adrià de Besòs and redefined the city’s relationship with the sea and the Besòs river.