Hundreds Take Protest Dip to Save Guardamar’s Historic Beach Homes

Over 300 individuals convened at Babilonia beach in Guardamar del Segura for a symbolic protest swim, aiming to safeguard its century-old beachfront residences from demolition. Dressed in swimwear, residents, supporters, and visitors gathered near the site of the former Jaime Restaurant, vowing to demonstrate their opposition to the proposed demolitions.

The event echoed a similar gathering from the previous year, with organizers hoping to maintain the momentum of the campaign as those affected persist in demanding a long-term resolution. Prominent campaigners David Renner and Elicio Mora spearheaded the effort, leveraging social media to garner support not only within Alicante province but also beyond the Valencian Community.

Renner and Mora, both young leaders in the movement, addressed the crowd before encouraging participants to take the plunge. Mora emphasized the importance of unity among residents and supporters, stating, "We want to continue showing that we are not alone; it is worth continuing the fight." The protest aimed to fortify the collective resolve of those advocating for the preservation of these historic coastal homes.

The campaign argues that Babilonia is not an isolated case, as the application of Spain's Coastal Law threatens similar traditional beachfront communities across the country. They are advocating for legislative changes that would provide enhanced protection for these landmarks.

Following another development in the legal battle, the Constitutional Court upheld the suspension of the section of the Valencian Coastal Protection and Planning Law that could have protected the affected properties from demolition. However, the court lifted the suspension regarding the creation of an official inventory of traditional coastal settlements and the provision allowing the Valencian Government to seek modifications from the State.