San Roque Residents Defy Parking Fines in Growing Row with Torrevieja Council

San Roque, a neighborhood in Torrevieja, is facing a dispute with the city council over parking restrictions. The issue centers around ten dead-end streets leading to the coast from Avenida Desiderio Rodríguez, named after various Vega Baja municipalities. Residents, who claim to have used these parking spaces for over 40 years without issue, are refusing to give up their spots despite warnings and fines of up to €90.

The tension escalated after mobility officers from Torrevieja's new urban mobility unit visited the neighborhood to warn drivers that parking in the disputed areas could result in fines. Local Police were called to the scene due to concerns that the situation could become heated. Since then, residents have organized to challenge the decision, with Calle Dolores residents leading the efforts to overturn the restrictions.

The affected residents argue that the enforcement campaign is unnecessary and motivated by revenue generation rather than public safety. They have met with Councillor for Citizen Security, Federico Alarcón, requesting recognition of the long-standing parking arrangements or providing alternative parking spaces. One proposal is the creation of a park-and-ride facility, especially during the busy summer season.

Alarcón stated that the council aims to create as many parking spaces as possible in the area, but residents remain concerned that fines will continue without a practical alternative. Some have vowed to continue parking in the disputed locations.

The dispute comes as Torrevieja launched its urban mobility unit in July, composed of 20 officers, a supervisor, and ten 125cc motorcycles. These temporary civil servants were initially hired for one year, with the possibility of extensions up to four years. While they cannot make arrests or prepare police reports, they are authorized to submit administrative complaints concerning traffic violations.

The new unit aims to relieve pressure on Torrevieja Local Police by managing vehicle and pedestrian movements, monitoring bus lanes, loading bays, and disabled parking spaces, and controlling traffic around schools and major events. However, its arrival has divided opinion among Torrevieja drivers. Some drivers criticize the tougher enforcement, while others, including taxi and bus operators, claim it has reduced illegal and double parking, including vehicles obstructing public transport stops.