Orihuela PSOE Demands Action on Housing Crisis: “Fewer Empty Promises, More Results”

The Socialist opposition in Orihuela has criticized the PP-Vox administration for making numerous housing promises without providing adequate practical solutions. Socialist councillor Milagros Lacárcel has submitted a motion for the next council meeting, urging the administration to take immediate action to address the housing crisis.

The proposals include municipal grants to help young people and low-income families with rent or home purchases, emergency assistance for those facing eviction or homelessness, and answers regarding the €5 million housing investment announced in July 2024, which promised 40 affordable homes and the renovation of 60 additional properties.

The party also wants to know how many homes have been delivered and when the remaining ones will become available. Other measures include identifying unused council-owned properties, streamlining renovation procedures in rural districts, and assessing whether Orihuela qualifies for high-pressure housing market designation. The PSOE also seeks stricter oversight of tourist accommodations to balance holiday rentals with permanent residents' housing needs.

Their motion calls for a detailed report within three months, outlining available properties, funding, proposed solutions, and implementation deadlines. Lacárcel emphasized the need for tangible results, stating that families require assistance now, and that building and renovating homes takes time. The PSOE argues that housing has become another case of the discrepancy between council announcements and completed projects, insisting that residents need affordable homes and financial assistance rather than further promises.