Another Campoamor Summer – A Nine Year ‘MASTERCLASS’ in Orihuela Council Neglect

Nine years have passed since over 300 residents of Campoamor protested the poor state of public services during the La Vuelta a España in 2017. Despite the passage of time, very little progress has been made. The ninth stage of the cycling race began beside La Glea beach, drawing worldwide attention as locals held signs calling for action.

Protesters' demands included better waste management, road repairs, and public investment. José Antonio Pardo Riquelme, a resident, stated that their efforts disrupted the event for only 24 hours, but the council has since ignored the issues. He added that politicians seem to take advantage of Orihuela Costa residents' discomfort.

Problems highlighted in 2017 persist, with residents still complaining about rubbish, broken pavements, damaged roads, neglected gardens, and poor beach access. Vicente Riquelme noted that Orihuela Council has neglected the area, pointing to tree roots damaging roads and abandoned spaces. Luis Martínez highlighted the accumulation of rubbish, dried-out gardens, and overgrown beach steps.

He questioned how the area could maintain Blue Flag beaches while public spaces remained in poor condition. Residents argue they pay the same taxes as Orihuela city residents but receive a lower standard of care. Jose Lopez Nicolás described street lighting in Campoamor as "appalling," with many lights either non-functional or poorly lit.

Despite the ongoing issues, the council makes promises year after year without meaningful improvements.