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Spanish national, regional and local authorities highlight Malaga's potential to be headquarters of European Customs Authority
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-11 17:17:16Malaga has officially presented its candidacy to host the new European Customs Authority (EUCA). The presentation took place at a ceremony at Spain's EU headquarters in Brussels, where deputy PM MarÃa Jesús Montero, president of the Andalusian regional government Juanma Moreno and Malaga mayor Francisco de la Torre highlighted the city's capacity to host this decentralised EU body, which is due to be launched next year.Spain has shown the unity of all public administrations around the commitment to Malaga during an event attended by various members of EU institutions and diplomatic missions. In their speeches, the representatives of the three public institutions that endorse Malaga highlighted the conditions that make the provincial capital a \"solid, competitive and unbeatable\" candidate. To host the EUCA, Malaga is competing with Liège (Belgium), Lille (France), Zagreb (Croatia), Rome (Italy), The Hague (Netherlands), Warsaw (Poland), Porto (Portugal) and Bucharest (Romania), whose projects will be presented in the coming weeks. The Council and the European Parliament will make a decision \"no earlier than February\", according to sources consulted.A moment of the presentation. surDuring the presentation, Montero, Moreno and De la Torre highlighted Malaga's geostrategic position in the Mediterranean, close to the maritime trade routes that link Europe with Asia, Africa and America; its expanding port and proximity to the port of Algeciras - one of the main ports in Europe; its \"robust\" logistics network; its connections through the international airport - 156 destinations in 38 countries; the high-speed rail network; the existence of a consolidated and thriving technological and knowledge ecosystem with the TechPark (former PTA) and the installation of multinationals such as Google, Oracle, TDK and Vodafone in the city and, soon, the headquarters of IMEC, a cutting-edge centre in the development of semiconductors.In addition, Malaga's candidacy also mentions its public service offers in health and education, including international schools; the existence of public and private universities; a \"very complete\" cultural and sporting offer; the environmental and historical heritage attractions; the climate; safety; the quality of life in the city and the existence of an important international resident community and an extensive consular network.The president of the Junta de AndalucÃa said that choosing Malaga would contribute to rebalancing the map of European agencies between the north and the south of the continent, since Amsterdam (European Medicines Agency) and Frankfurt (European Anti-Money Laundering Authority) were recently chosen as headquarters of other EU bodies. The president of the Junta highlighted the need to rebalance the map of European agencies between the north and the south of the continent\"It is time to have more representation from Southern Europe. It is important for the EU that the map of European agencies is rebalanced in the interests of greater representativeness and participation among the 27 EU member countries, which is also the best way to extend the European spirit and its principles of equality,\" Juanma Moreno said, adding that in AndalucÃa the sense of belonging is \"very strong\" and that the best way to crown this feeling is for Malaga to host an organisation of \"such strategic importance\" as the EUCA.MarÃa Jesús Montero stated that choosing Malaga, in its function as a \"firmly\" pro-European country, \"would contribute to strengthening the European project\". She recalled that Spain had previously promoted a debate that was necessary for customs reform in the EU.\"Spain presents a winning candidacy, offering solvency, capacity and technical excellence in each of the requirements demanded by Europe to host the headquarters of the European Customs Authority. It offers something unquestionable: a wonderful city, a unique environment, one of the best in the world for working and enjoying life (...) sun, happiness, culture, innovation and talent in abundance,\" she said.Malaga 'presents a winning candidacy', according to the deputy PM of SpainAs mayor of the city, Francisco de la Torre stated that Malaga is the \"safest and most prepared\" city to host the EUCA and added that it is one of the largest European cities without a formal EU institutional presence. \"Choosing Malaga is not just selecting a city; it is choosing security, innovation, quality of life and a reliable partner that will support the success of the EUCA. In Malaga, the EUCA will thrive and find everything it needs to fulfil its important mission in Europe,\" he said.'In Malaga, the EUCA will thrive and find everything it needs to fulfil its important mission in Europe,' the mayor of Malaga saidThe official ceremony opened with the screening of the Malaga candidacy promotional video.
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Solidarity on wheels: more than 50 taxis show Malaga's Christmas to society's most vulnerable
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-11 07:45:57A total of 55 taxis and 250 people took part in this year's Taxiluz - the initiative for which Malaga's taxi drivers get together to offer rides to the most vulnerable members of society and show them the joy of Christmas with a tour around the city's lights. Already at 10am on 9 December, some of the drivers were preparing for the evening, both nervous and excited. \"I'm cleaning and decorating the car,\" one of them wrote in a WhatsApp group. More than 200 taxi drivers participated in this year's action, which was born nine years ago, when only 15 taxis joined. Now, with the number of cars having increased, more than 250 elderly people, children undergoing cancer treatments and people with disabilities were able to witness the magic of Christmas, which even the cars reflect, decorated with garlands, Christmas trees, LED lights, bows, Santas and reindeers.The vehicles were led and escorted by the Local Police and civil protection so that the safety of everybody involved could be ensured. \"I haven't seen this in 11 years. How everything has changed, but how nice it is.... I remember those who are no longer here and how much I love my grandchildren and children,\" 79-year-old Manoli Miralles said. She was one of the women who came from the Guadalmar residence. Beneficiaries from other organisations, such as Nena Paine, Fundación Olivares, Asociación Neurodiverso, Hermanitas de los Pobres, Down Málaga, Casa Ronald McDonald, Asociación Mercader and Residencia El Buen Samaritano, also enjoyed the ride.The route began with the collection of passengers at the headquarters of associations and care homes. Once everyone was singing Christmas carols, wearing Christmas hats and smiling, the ride started from Avenida de la Aurora at 6.30pm. The taxis passed through Alameda Principal, Paseo del Parque and stopped at the Farola lighthouse to take the traditional group photo and receive gifts from Asociación Superhéroes Un Niño Una Sonrisa, which filled the taxi ride with even more excitement.Excitement shared by the whole familySix-year-old Neizan could enter a world outside the treatment he is undergoing for bone marrow cancer thanks to Taxiluz. \"The best thing about this is being with my family,\" the little boy said, accompanied by his mother Reyes Chamizo. \"The hope this moment gives us is inexplicable, after everything we have been through in the hospital,\" his mother said. Nine-year-old Elena Merino's eyes were also shining with excitement. Accompanied by her mother Mariló Sierra and her sister, she confessed that she was \"having a great time\" and that she loved \"shouting 'Merry Christmas'\" from the taxi. \"When we did this for the first time, we saw that they were so excited to see the lights. They told us that no one had ever done this for them, especially the elderly, the grandparents who were grateful that someone would pick them up for free,\" taxi driver Guillermo DÃaz said. He wanted to mention his colleague Nati and praise her for joining every single year and organising the whole initiative. Since the first ride, taxi drivers have been immersed in Taxiluz. \"It is unforgettable - the look of joy on their faces during the ride,\" DÃaz said.This year's Taxiluz paid tribute to Noa and Daniel, children of two colleagues who died in the past yearWords of gratitude were expressed for various associations and unions: Aumat, Amusta, Escuela Clic, Archidona public library, the tourism department of Malaga city council, the Local Police and civil protection. They make this route that fills hundreds of people with joy possible every Christmas. The initiative transcends borders and is also celebrated in other big cities such as Madrid, Seville, Barcelona and Granada.A special stop was made during the tour so that the passengers could see the Nativity scene at the city council. Before returning home, the taxi drivers paid tribute to Noa and Daniel - children of two colleagues - who died in the past year. Balloons were released into the sky for them. \"For all the stars we have,\" Nati said, emotion breaking through her voice.
Contract awarded to turn eastern Costa del Sol castle into museum
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-11 17:12:36Vélez-Málaga town hall on the eastern Costa del Sol has awarded the contract to restore Torre del Mar's castle and open it up as a museum space, to Construcciones Calderón S. L. with a budget of 845,236 euros. The old castle, located on Plaza AxarquÃa to the north of the town centre, is one of the most important reminders of its defensive and commercial past, of which only a few remains are left. The project, which has a completion period of six months, will enable the building to be restored and its future museum project to be developed. The town hall expects the space to open in 2026, provided there are no administrative or construction delays. \"After completing all the procedures required we now have the company that will carry out the work. If there are no unforeseen circumstances, Torre del Mar will have its fully completed museum in 2026,\" said the deputy mayor of Torre del Mar, Jesús Carlos Pérez Atencia, in a statement.The project has been selected as part of a state programme for the revitalisation of historical heritage for tourist use, financed with European Next Generation funds. Of the 92 projects approved throughout Spain, this is the only one in Malaga province.The restoration of the castle represents a return to one of the historical demands of the town of Torre del Mar, whose military past - with its watchtower, coastal fortress and later its strategic role in maritime trade - has been largely diluted by urban growth and the tourism boom of recent decades. \"The aim of the project is to restore the building's heritage, turning it into a representative model of Torre del Mar, historically shaped by its military function and intense commercial activity,\" explained Atencia.However, a group of 46 local residents oppose the project that will involve the expropriation of their homes. Those affected consider that the compensation being offered is insufficient and complain that the process puts their residential future at risk.Tension increased after the Local Police removed several protest banners from balconies a few weeks ago, an act that residents interpret as an attempt to silence criticism. Vélez-Málaga town hall insists that the entire procedure is legal, while those affected say they want to be heard and warn that the conflict will not be resolved by trying to hide their demands.
Fuengirola town hall launches new street tree replanting plan
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-11 07:27:39Fuengirola town hall has launched a new urban tree replanting plan to replace more than 200 trees in over 50 public spaces throughout the town. This was announced by the townâs mayor, Ana Mula, and urban ecology councillor José Sánchez, who visited the seafront promenade to inspect the work earlier this week. The plan includes the planting of eleven different species in areas that have been left empty due to incidents or disease affecting the previous trees.The budget for this project amounts to more than 66,000 euros and the work is being carried out by the company Malagueña Forestal. The contract specification sets an execution period of 50 days. Work began last week in the area of Calle Palangreros and will continue until a total of 58 streets, avenues and squares across the town have been covered.âFuengirola has always been known for its beautiful streets, largely thanks to our firm commitment to providing quality green spaces and planting trees in its streets, avenues and squares whenever accessibility and space allow it. However, the passage of time, adverse weather conditions, misuse by some members of the public and even natural causes have meant that many of our trees have died and had to be removed. We now have too many empty tree pits, which also pose a risk to pedestrians and create an image that does not reflect what we want for our town,â the mayor said.
Spain's traffic authority assures that 'police will be flexible' to facilitate transition to V-16 beacons
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-11 07:30:59Director-general of traffic Pere Navarro has stated that there will be \"no extension\" to the obligation to carry the V-16 warning beacon in vehicles from 1 January 2026. This device will replace reflective warning triangles. However, Spain's traffic authority (DGT) has confirmed that it is considering a transition period during which the police will be more flexible. During this time, their role will be more informative than punitive, as the main aim is for the new system to become established and for drivers to become familiar with it.In the event of an accident, the V-16 beacon, which can be stored in the glove compartment, must be taken out and placed on top of the vehicle. When activated, authorised beacons will connect to the DGT 3.0 platform \"to transmit location in real time and warn other road users of the situation\".The Spanish confederation of freight transport (CETM) has asked the DGT to issue an official and detailed statement on the supposed transition period so that there are no confusions or differing interpretations regarding its scope and deadlines.It also points out that \"any effective start of the sanctioning regime should be coordinated in advance with transport organisations in order to ensure that all companies and professionals are adequately prepared\".
Motorway tolls in Spain to rise again above inflation, another 4% from 1 January
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-11 17:32:11Spanish motorways raise their rates on 1 January. For yet another year, toll roads will rise above inflation despite the fact that the approved formula used to be linked to the CPI until the price crisis in 2023 disrupted this mechanism. The increase for 2026 will be around 4%, after sources in the sector confirmed that the reference index will rise by 2.61% next year. To this must be added the variation in real/predicted traffic applied by the concessionaires and the increase applied by the Ministry of Transport to mitigate the 2023 fare freeze, which in the last two years has been an additional 1%.With this, the increase will be around 4%, which is the same as last year, when it was between 3.84% and 5.45%, depending on the specific conditions of each concession. The exact increase will be published in the official state gazette before 1 January. According to this information, the increase in the tariffs of the 11 toll motorways (AP-51, AP-61, AP-6, AP-6, AP-53, AP-66, AP-7 Alicante-Cartagena, AP-7 Málaga-Guadiaro, AP-68 and AP-71, AP-9 and AP-46) will be more than 1% above inflation, the index to which the increases used to be linked and which in 2025 will close at 2.7%, according to the latest forecasts by Funcas.Influx 600,000 drivers use the country's 11 toll motorways every monthThis is because the government has to continue compensating for the 2023 subsidy, when the price crisis triggered inflation. If the government had not limited the increase to 4% by promising deferred compensation to the concessionaires, tariffs would have risen by almost 9%. The increase will be very similar to that of 2025 but lower than that of 2024, when tariffs were increased by between 5% and 6.65%, the highest increase since the CPI-linked system was approved more than 20 years ago. Until last year, the highest increase had taken place in 2007, when, in line with average inflation in 2006, tolls rose by 4.5% across Spain. The increases in the last few years have been much lower, with a tariff increase of 1.97% in 2022, 0.11% in 2021, 0.84% in 2020 and 1.2% in 2019.Motorways rescued by the stateAround 600,000 drivers use toll roads every month. The four main concessionaires (Abertis, ItÃnere, Globalvia and Ausol) invoice around 1.5 billion euros a year for the 1,400 kilometres of private state roads. In 2023, they stated that they would not accept losing half of what they could invoice if the CPI-linked increase was met. Therefore, after intense negotiations, the Ministry of Transport established this compensation over several years, which was still far from what these companies were asking for.The nine motorways rescued by the state and managed by Seitt (Sociedad Estatal de Infraestructuras de Transporte Terrestre) have a different tariff model and it is the Ministry of Transport that decides on the annual increase. On 1 January this year these roads, which include R-3/R-5, R-2, R-4 in Madrid, as well as the M-12, the AP-7 Alicante ring road, the AP-7 Cartagena-Vera, the AP-36 Ocaña-La Roda and the AP-41 Madrid-Toledo, went up by 5%, but in the last few days of the year the government approved that from 2026 the annual increase in the tariff for these roads will be 2% until 2032 for all vehicles. Likewise, these roads will continue being free to use between midnight and 6am every day of the year.
Weekend with wintry weather in Malaga province: intense rainfall on Friday and strong winds on Saturday
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-11 18:20:47From a spring-like weekend to a purely wintry Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Malaga, only five days apart: this is the weather forecast in the province, according to state meteorological agency Aemet. If last weekend people were seen sunbathing, from Friday this week and until at least Tuesday, Malaga will switch to the type of weather more typical for this time of the year, although with some strong natural phenomena.The Aemet centre in Malaga is monitoring the situation that will begin to develop from Thursday night, when the first light rainfall is expected - a sample of what is to be expected on Friday, when an isolated low or trough at high altitude with surface reflections will spread across the province. In this case, we are not talking about a 'dana' in the strict sense of the word. \"We have to get used to the different nuances - it is neither a 'dana' nor an isolated cold low,\" weather experts state. In addition to downpours, this phenomenon will be characterised by intense wind, especially on Saturday and Sunday along the coast.Yellow warningsSeveral yellow warnings (low-risk) have already been activated: the first, for rainfall of up to 40mm accumulated in 12 hours, which will mainly affect the westernmost part of the Costa del Sol (between Marbella, Estepona and Manilva), Los Reales and the lower part of SerranÃa de Ronda.In addition, there is another warning for \"coastal phenomena\" along the entire coastline of the province due to winds from the east and the north-east of 50 to 60 km/h (force 7) and waves of two to three metres in height.50-60 mm may accumulate between Friday and Sunday in the westernmost points of the Costa del Sol\"It really depends on how the trough at high altitude and the low on the surface move,\" director of the meteorological centre in Malaga Jesús Riesco says. \"Regardless, it's going to be a very unpleasant day.\"The wet spell will continue throughout the weekend. \"This depression will be isolated and on Saturday or Sunday it will be centred in the north of Africa,\" Riesco warns. This means that rainfall will continue, initially of low intensity, throughout the province, with the heaviest once again on the western coast. Depending on the position it finally takes, it may leave a good contribution in the La Concepción reservoir, which supplies this area.The rains continueWidespread showers are still expected on Monday, although they will gradually \"move to the east\". A new high trough, although different from the first, is expected on Tuesday.A lull is initially expected between Wednesday and Thursday, but \"more precipitation may arrive for the final stretch of next week (the weekend before Christmas)\". Cumulative probabilitiesSUR's weather expert José Luis Escudero has compiled the probable accumulated rainfall predicted by the main models. According to the European model, 20 to 30mm may be collected on Friday between Marbella and Estepona, while on Saturday very little (less than 5mm) is expected in the same area.According to these forecasts, another rainy episode may take place on Sunday, leaving 25mm in large areas of the western Costa del Sol. Therefore, if the forecast is fulfilled, the weekend could end with more than 50-60mm accumulated in the province, to which must be added the accumulations between Monday and Tuesday.
The Malaga village that recycles Christmas
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-11 07:32:27The village of Canillas de Aceituno in Malaga province's AxarquÃa is decorated for Christmas once again thanks to the hard work and skill of local residents who make all of their festive creations using recycled materials. It is a community initiative that SUR has been following since it started during the Covid pandemic and which continues to grow in participation and creativity, showing that a different kind of Christmas is possible, beyond brand new LED lights and shiny new decorations.In the streets and squares, next to the town hall and the municipal car park, two of the decorations that most attract the attention are a large gift package made from dozens of red and white plastic bottles and caps, with flowers, candy canes and Christmas figures sticking out of it and a snowman made from recycled cups, decorated with a red scarf and black hat. The scene is completed by a golden 'photocall' feature, also made from recycled materials, which attracts tourists and families wanting to capture their visit. The work can be seen in every corner of the village: in the playground the railings are filled with large white and red flowers made from reused containers, while the streets and viewpoints are dominated by red wreaths and garlands that stand out against the whitewashed walls.The town hall is one of the most decorated buildings: balconies, staircases and arches are decorated with handmade floral arrangements, precisely placed to create a visual effect that stands out against the traditional architecture and activity is constant with residents who can be seen adjusting the decorations every day.Recycled Christmas decorations around Canillas de Aceituno RocÃo Ortiz GarcÃa The town hall explains that the initiative, which began four years ago in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, not only contributes to environmental sustainability - preventing kilos of plastic and other waste from ending up in bins - but has also become a community activity involving residents of all ages. It was started by MarÃa del Carmen Jiménez, Concepción Bonilla, Carmen RamÃrez, Concepción Morales and MarÃa Jesús Hidalgo, members of a local women's group, who have gained support from the town hall and other organisations and individuals since they started. Shopkeepers, restaurants and bars in Canillas are confident that the decorations will once again attract hundreds of visitors during the festive season, a trend that has become established in recent years. Once again, Canillas de Aceituno is proving that Christmas can be created with ingenuity, collective effort and materials that, anywhere else, would have ended up in the rubbish dump.
750 homes, large school and hotel: Marbella's new urban development plans
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-11 07:48:43The latest new urban development project announced by Marbella town hall affects the Cabopino area. The council has taken the first step to develop a 623,000-square-metre plot at the eastern end of the town, in the area known as La VizcaÃna, where a large school, a hotel and several homes will be built. The number of housing units will range from 685 to 872 and four out of every ten of them will be subsidised housing units (VPOs).For the moment, the local ruling team has approved the declaration of municipal interest and of convenience of a project that assesses what different areas of the town need and confirms the sustainability of construction. Urban planning councillor José Eduardo DÃaz outlined the development plans on Tuesday.La VizcaÃna is located in southern Marbella, just south of the AP-7 motorway, between La Reserva de Marbella and the Artola Alta area, next to the Cabopino golf course. The idea, as described by DÃaz, is \"to integrate it into the existing network and significantly improve road communications in this area\".The development will 'respect the natural features of the area' and include an extensive 125,000 square metres of green areas and open spacesThe councillor stated that \"the sector has been assigned urban planning parameters that are compatible with its surroundings and environmentally sustainable, respecting the natural features of the area\". He said that the plot is \"large enough to house a supramunicipal educational facility\", as well a hotel, which aligns with Marbella's tourism attractiveness.DÃaz said that the total number of housing units will vary between 685 and 872 units, \"always complying with the condition that 40% will be destined for public housing or affordable rented housing\". He added that the urban planning department has included the implementation of green areas and open spaces of almost 125,000 square metres to the project.Economic viabilityDÃaz stated that the project's economic report \"guarantees its viability\". The task following the approved declaration of interest is the presentation and processing of the delimitation proposal, in which \"the square metres assigned to each use and the final parameters of the development will be specified in detail\".The local ruling team also reported on 76 responsible declarations and seven major work decrees processed by the urban planning department, representing a total of almost 7.5 million euros in investment. Of this, nearly six million euros correspond to minor works and projects promoted by residents and property owners. These projects alone will generate 300,000 euros in net revenue for the municipal coffers in the form of taxes.
Seven key residency stats about Brits living in Spain in 2025
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-11 11:48:37207,234 UK nationals have a Withdrawal Agreement TIE residency card in 2025
Around half of UK nationals in Spain now have TIE residency cards. According to government data, a year ago there were slightly more Brits with Withdrawal Agreement (WA) TIEs - 210,538 - reflecting how some Britons have left Spain or have since passed away.
The WA TIE is biometric card which started to be issued to Brits in July 2020. It's similar to the Spanish residency card of other non-EU nationals but itâs specific to Brits and their non-EU family members. It proves that they were residents in Spain before Brexit came into force, clearly stating their Withdrawal Agreement rights, which are roughly the same ones they had as EU nationals.
130,546 Brits have permanent Withdrawal Agreement TIEs
Spanish migration stats show that around 63 percent of Brits have permanent Withdrawal Agreement TIE cards, while 36 percent have temporary ones (75,572). As itâs been five years since Spanish authorities started issuing temporary WA TIEs, and temporary card holders can renew and move onto a permanent WA TIE after five years, we can expect the number of temporary WA TIEs to keep getting lower.
READ MORE: How Brits in Spain can renew their temporary residency TIE card
187,813 UK nationals still have their green EU certificates
Despite numerous calls over the past years by British and Spanish authorities for Brits to exchange their old green certificates (the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión) for TIEs, a huge number of UK nationals have opted to keep the Spanish residency document from when they were EU citizens. Even the fact that the EUâs new EES entry system will reportedly make travel difficult for these people has not managed to convince them.
A year ago there were 193,352 UK citizens with green certificates, so the number has dropped by 5,539, but still remains very high .
The latest figure from Spainâs Permanent Immigration Observatory - 187,813 - clashes with the Spanish Interior Ministryâs estimate last July that there were âsome 50,000â Brits who hadnât done the swap.
The exchange remains non-compulsory but strongly advised.
READ MORE: UK Embassy insists Brits in Spain get TIEs or risk being 'treated as overstayers'
24,037 UK nationals have other post-Brexit residency authorisations
Brits who werenât living in Spain before Brexit have to apply for a residency visa if they want to live in Spain, just like any other non-EU citizen. Spanish government data shows that as of September 2025, just over 24,000 Britons hold Spanish residency through visas such as the non-lucrative visa or the digital nomad visa. In September 2024, the figure stood at 17,104, reflecting how Brits are still finding ways to move to Spain, albeit far less easily.
READ MORE: Demand for Spanish residency still strong post-Brexit
A total of 419,084 Brits are now Spanish residents
Based on the latest stats by Spainâs Permanent Immigration Observatory, there are slightly over 419,000 Britons who have Spanish residency documents in 2025 (September). That makes them the biggest European non-EU residentsâ group living in the country ahead of Russians and Ukrainians. A year earlier in September 2024, that figure stood at 420,357, so Spainâs British population has dropped by just over 1,000 in a year.
172,895 Brits residing in Spain are over 65
Over-65s make up a large chunk of Spainâs British population, about 41 percent of the total. Unfortunately, Spainâs Permanent Immigration Observatory doesnât break down the 16 to 65 year old age group into smaller categories, but over-65s clearly make up a considerable amount of green certificate and WA TIE holders, much less so for the standard non-EU residency authorisations. The figures showcase just how popular continues to be among British retirees, and more pensioners are arriving compared to last year, when over-65s totalled 169,001.
Alicante and Málaga the favourite places for Brits in Spain
Itâs no surprise but the latest immigration data highlights how Alicante continues to be the favourite Spanish province for Brits to live in Spain, as 98,714 UK nationals reside there as of September 2025.
Málaga follows in second place with 73,677 British residents.
Barcelona, Madrid, the Balearics, the Canaries and other parts of coastal Andalusia and Murcia have considerable British populations, but nowhere near as big as the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol.
READ ALSO: UK Embassy singles out Brits in Alicante and Málaga for not getting TIEs
Historic Medieval tower partially collapses in Mallorcaâs capital, Palma
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-10 11:08:00A significant collapse has affected a medieval tower adjacent to the Baluard de Sant Pere in Palma, Spain, situated between Calle de la Pólvora and the corner of Calle de Sant Pere. The conservation organisation ARCA has highlighted that this 14th-century structure, which is founded upon an earlier Islamic construction later integrated into the Baluard de Sant Pere's defences, is believed to have once formed part of the arms barracks for the historic Portopi gate. This incident underscores long-standing concerns regarding the preservation of Palma's rich heritage.
ARCA expressed its profound indignation, stating, \"It isn't a superficial collapse, as the photographs clearly show; rather, the depth of the collapse is considerable.\" The group's frustration stems from years of persistent demands for the restoration of this historical asset, directed at both the Consell Insular and the Ajuntament de Palma. \"We've only received assurances that a project is being drafted, and that's been the case for at least eight years,\" the entity lamented. They contend that \"inaction in the defence and maintenance of heritage by those responsible has very negative consequences.\"
Extent of the Damage
ARCA has confirmed that a substantial section of the wall's eastern facade, primarily composed of rammed earth covered by mortar, has given way. \"It's a fragment of the wall of significant dimensions,\" the group noted, stressing the urgency of the situation. They insist that \"an emergency intervention is required. A professional restorer must immediately step in to provide instructions on how to stabilise and halt further collapse.\"
Immediate Action Required
Given that the tower is a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC), signifying its utmost patrimonial importance, \"action to prevent even greater damage must be immediate.\" Furthermore, ARCA emphasised the need for an archaeological examination of the fallen materials, including earth, stone, and other elements. Such a study, they believe, \"could yield valuable information if fragments of manufactured ceramic elements are discovered.\"
Long-Standing Concerns
For years, ARCA has consistently pointed out that \"it's evident at a glance that numerous areas of the gate are suffering from mortar loss, which compromises the monument's integrity,\" advocating for \"a serious restoration project.\" Beyond ARCA's efforts, architect Joana Roca had also called for the tower's restoration during various meetings of the Historic Centre committee.
Demands for Restoration
The organisation is now demanding that the Patrimoni del Consell Insular and the Ajuntament de Palma implement measures for the containment of potential further collapses, ensure the conservation and study of the remains, and initiate an urgent, comprehensive restoration project involving professional restorers. \"Heritage doesn't deserve such continuous neglect, especially when it's so relevant as one of the few visible vestiges of the Islamic era and is publicly owned,\" ARCA asserted. \"Here, urgency and importance converge. We urge Cort and the Consell for an immediate response.\"
Protest actions by Palma Police to start this month
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-10 17:20:00Unions have announced that Palma Police will be taking protest action because a new plan for police organisation will not be place from January 1, as had been intended.
The police will adopt \"a change of course\", say the unions, the town hall's councillor for public function, Mercedes Celeste, insisting \"we are working at full speed\" on the plan. She suggests it will be implemented some time during the first quarter of 2026.
However, the unions, four in all, believe there is \"a lack of will\" and that deliberate political strategies are behind the decision. In a letter to the police force, they point out that the service continues to function solely thanks to the efforts of the officers, who \"are sustaining a dysfunctional structure\", while the administration \"improvises\" and presents itself as a good manager.
An agreed-upon plan had been negotiated \"in good faith\", add the unions. Officers will not give up days off or rest periods in order to cover service shortages, nor will they voluntarily participate in reinforcement tasks, such as summer deployments or in operations in the Son Banya shanty town.
Protest actions will begin this month. \"If the new plan is not implemented, it will be solely due to the administration's decision and not due to a lack of willingness on the part of the staff.\"
Celeste explains: \"When the final document was presented, town hall technicians found some shortcomings. For this reason, an interdisciplinary committee was formed and work began to improve the document. This has led us to a job evaluation.\"
Advice was needed for this evaluation. \"It has delayed us. We won't be ready by January 1, but we are working at full speed to have it implemented during the first quarter. The important thing is that it's done right. There is a political commitment - it's the mayor's word - but it has to be done correctly.\"
IN THE BUNKER WITH MICK THE GRIP
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-10 17:27:35ROVANIEMI IN NORTHERN FINLAND is the âofficialâ home of Santa Claus. The Santa Claus Village is a world famous Christmas tourist attraction. It also has two golf courses.
On the 9-hole Santa Claus Winter Course snow golf is played. Golfballs are orange. Itâs 15 euros to rent clubs, but your set (3 irons and and a putter) comes with a sleigh.
Finns love their outdoor sports, witness their unusual recreations: Wife Carrying World Championships, Swamp Football World Championships, Rubber Boot Throwing. Cold doesnât bother them. âItâs -30C today, but there are still a few players out there,â said course director Pia Lillberg. The greens are âwhitesâ and some are on frozen lakes.
The rules are largely the same as in normal golf, except that you hit the ball standing on a slip-proof matt. âIf you miss the fairway you can see the hole in the snow and then you just dig the ball out. Santaâs Snow Golf Classic is held in December followed by a knees-up and mulled wine. Then presumably the golfers go back to their padded cells.
SPIKED GOLF SHOES are still popular, despite the rise of spikeless models. Not so much in Spain, but If youâre playing in difficult conditions, where youâre likely to slip on wet or uneven surfaces, having a solid pair of spiked shoes is a huge benefit. They can offer that extra level of support and traction, which can give confidence to put your best swing on the ball.
Adidas Tour 360 shoes are an update to an already popular model. The 360 incorporates a sockliner which âconnects to the tongue to help your feet lock in on the shoesâ (if you need help putting your shoes on youâve got problems) There is also a Jet Boost in the heel, which sounds as though it would zoom you aloft like a James Bond Jetpack to soar effortlessly from hole to hole but actually just aids stability.
With a tough microfibre heel and smart leather uppers, but best of all, sharp spikes, which especially in Northern climes are essential. Nobody admires your smart pimple shoes if your sitting in the mud.
Chi Chi Rodriguez, playing with a lady who insisted on kissing him every time they made a birdie: âI canât wait till we make an albatross.â
RORY MCILROY was the marquee drawcard after committing to the Australian Open for the next two years, and the Melbourne crowds responded, pouring in to watch him every day. His rounds of 71, 68 and 68, followed by a two-under 69 to finish the week at seven-under, drew alternate cheers and groans for the banana peel double bogey on Day 3 and the outrageous escapes from the rough on Day 2 just to make the cut.
McIlroy wished he could have been in contention and âbeen coming down the stretch and battling with the boys,â but the finale between Neergaard-Petersen and Cam Smith, in which Smith missed his short putt to force a playoff, kept the fans superbly entertained and helped lift Australian golf back into the limelight.
Rory admitted that adjusting to the sandbelt wasnât easy, nor the classic Melbourne weather, with Thursdayâs scorching heat and Saturdayâs pouring rain, but the fans had been inspiring. âItâs been over 10 years since I played in the Australian Open and look at the scenes out there this week, the crowds were absolutely incredible. â
Notwithstanding Aussie Cam Smiths loyal supporters, Rory was the Mick Dundee of golf, and they couldnât give a XXXX for anyone else.
GET YOUR delighted expression ready for those little presents: shot glasses printed with âDadâs best Shotâ and âDadâs lucky Golf Socks.â Youâve got a drawer full from last year but who cares, itâs Christmas.
LASTLY: A senior golfer met his 23 year old opponent on the golf course one Christmas morning. âHow come your wife lets you play golf on Christmas morning Alf?â asked the youngster. âSimpleâ said Alf, I leapt out of bed this morning and said âItâs a great morning for sex or golf!â and she said âYouâll Need a sweater.â
A Merry Christmas to all and happy golfing in 2026.
Torrevieja in Bloom as City Dresses up for Christmas
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-10 15:56:03Torreviejaâs Department of Parks and Gardens is transforming key locations across the city with vibrant seasonal plantings as part of the Patron Saint Festivities and the arrival of Christmas. The initiative enhances the cityâs festive atmosphere with two traditional winter species: poinsettias and cyclamens, chosen for their ornamental value, durability and ability to bring colour to the urban landscape throughout the winter months.
The poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima), native to Mexico, stands out for its striking red bracts and its strong association with Christmas décor worldwide. Complementing it is the cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum), which offers shades ranging from red to white and fuchsia, adding contrast, brightness and long-lasting blooms.
These festive plants are being installed at several emblematic points across Torrevieja, including Calle Concepción, Plaza Miguel Hernández, Paseo Vista Alegre, Plaza Encarnación Puchol in La Mata, Calle Campoamor, and roundabouts along Avenida Cortes Valencianas and Caballero de Rodas.
According to the Department of Parks and Gardens, the beautification effort aims to reinforce the cityâs holiday identity by creating welcoming, well-maintained and attractive public spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy in the weeks ahead.
Shani Ormiston to Host 23rd Torrevieja âCarols in the Square.â
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-10 17:37:12Torrevieja, 10 December 2025 â' This Friday, 12 December, from 5:30 pm, the Plaza de la Constitución in Torrevieja will come alive with festive music as the city hosts the 23rd edition of âCarols in the Squareâ, an international Christmas concert organised by the City Councilâs Department for International Residents.
The event, which has been a holiday tradition since 2002, draws hundreds of residents from diverse nationalities to celebrate the season through song. This year, the concert will be presented by Torrevieja singer Shani Ormiston, who will also perform her own repertoire.Performances will feature:
⢠Ave Maria Choir from the Polish Chaplaincy of Torrevieja (Poland)⢠Melody Makers Singing Group (United Kingdom)⢠Vocal groups from the Cultural Association âAcércate a RumanÃaâ, including âChindiaâ and students of the Romanian Language, Culture and Civilization course (Romania)⢠Voces del Norte and Nordic Choir (Sweden and Norway)⢠Uanima Choir (Ukraine)⢠Blanca y Verde Choir from the Casa de AndalucÃa Rafael Alberti (Spain)
As in previous years, the NGO Nueva Fraternidad will provide traditional mulled wine for attendees.
The concert will be attended by Torreviejaâs Mayor Eduardo Dolón, Deputy Mayor and Councilor for Festivities Rosario MartÃnez, Councilor for International Residents Gitte Lund Thomsen, Councilor for Coexistence and Integration Oscar Urtasun North, and other members of the local government.
The Plaza de la Constitución is again expected to be absolutely packed with residents, many dressed in Santa Claus costumes, joining in songs and hymns from their home countries and sharing in the joy of this unique international Christmas celebration.
Torrevieja Retirement Home to Be Renamed in Honour of Maestro Francisco Casanovas
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-10 15:30:26The Torrevieja Residence for Older Persons will soon bear the name of celebrated musician Maestro Francisco Casanovas Tallardá, following approval from the regional Directorate General for Social and Healthcare Infrastructure. The proposal was initiated by the Musical and Cultural Association Francisco Casanovas and supported by the Directorate General for Dependency and Older Persons.
The association, together with the residenceâs management, expressed their delight at the decision, which pays tribute to Casanovasâ exceptional legacy. The maestro lived at the residence between 1976 and 1986 and enjoyed an illustrious international career.
His achievements include performing at the 1924 Paris Olympic Games with the Pau Casals Orchestra, winning the Columbia Saxophone Prize in New York in 1945âwhere he was hailed as the finest saxophonist in the worldâand mentoring famed conductor Zubin Mehta, the associationâs honorary president.
A public event to commemorate the renaming is planned, with the date to be confirmed shortly.
Your Tech Questions Answered: Brian Hoile Joins The Leader
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-10 17:00:57The Leader Newspaper is pleased to welcome Brian Hoile to its team of writers. Brian will be filling an important gap in response to the regular requests we receive, particularly from many senior members of our community. This gap relates to all things technical.
In his new column, Brian will offer readers the opportunity to ask any technology-related questions they may have and will provide helpful, easy-to-follow answers.
So, if you have a question or a problem with any household technology item and need Brianâs assistance, please email him at cbtechnology.help@gmail.com. If your question appears in the column but isnât answered in full, Brian will email you the complete response directly.
This column will deal with virtually any technical issue, including the following:
Smartphones, Tablets, Laptops, PCâs, Cloud Storage, Printers, Smart TVâs, Chromecast, TV Boxes (IPTV). Amazon Fire Stick, Smart Speakers, Smart Watches, Satellite Navigation, Dash Cams, CCTV Systemsâ¦.and more.
Costa Blanca Technology Help Group
Brian has been a Technology Help Group for more than 7 years with around 390 members who have access to attend monthly classes, ask questions, and get home visits for more detailed help. If you would like to join the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group, send an email to cbtechnology.help@gmail.com
Group members have access to the group website, which has copies of all presentations and handouts on a variety of topics.
What does the group offer?
He also presents a class on the second Wednesday of each month from 10:00 to 12:00 at Dillyâs Bar Av. Castuera, 3, 03184 El Chaparral, AlicanteYou are welcome to turn up for these classes.
Brian also gives the same presentation on the second Thursday of the month using Teams Video Conferencing from 11:00 to 12:30.
Before each meeting, He emails all group members detailing what will be covered during that meeting. Following the meeting, each group member receives an email with a copy of the presentations used.
He offers email and telephone support and home visits if required. After a home visit, you will receive a detailed report of any tasks performed during the visit, for your future reference.
If required, Brian can remotely connect to your laptop or computer (with your permission) while in telephone contact and sort out issues or show you how to do things you might be having trouble with.
There is no charge for time spent helping group members, but he will expect to be reimbursed for âout-of-pocketâ expensesâi.e., travel etc.
If you are a group member, you will receive updates and copies of the presentations given at the classes.
If you run, or are a member of a social group, you can ask for a presentation on any topic within the Technology Help Groupâs remit. Please send Brian an email to arrange such a presentation for your group.
To become a member of the Costa Blanca Technology Help Group or to arrange a bespoke meeting email: cbtechnology.help@gmail.com.
Doctorâs Strike Halts Tests, Surgeries, Across Valencian Community
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-10 16:02:09A nationwide doctorsâ strike has paralysed hospitals and health centres across the Valencian Community, forcing the cancellation of 8,000 appointments, 6,000 tests, and 206 operations.
The strike, called by the Spanish Confederation of Medical Unions (CESM), is a protest against the governmentâs proposed Framework Statute for healthcare professionals. Doctors demand better working conditions, fair pay, a maximum 35-hour workweek, and early retirement options. The unions warn of a critical shortage of doctors, overcrowded waiting rooms, and an overstretched healthcare system.
The Ministry of Health, meanwhile, claims there was just 15% participation, while unions insist up to 90% of hospital staff and 70% of health centres have joined. Emergency services continue to operate, but routine care has been hit hard, with some hospitals cancelling all operating rooms and diagnostic procedures.
Regional Health Minister Marciano Gómez called on the national government to rethink the statute and negotiate with unions, while the Popular Party criticised the ministry for ignoring the systemic problems affecting the National Health System.
The unions have announced further protests every two weeks, including a major demonstration in Madrid on December 16, warning that the strike will continue until the government addresses doctorsâ demands.
Stagestruck Players âWhodunnitâ raises â¬5,500 for Alzheimerâs Charity
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-10 15:45:11The Stagestruck Players are a small Amateur Dramatic group who are known for performing comedy Murder Mysteries in local bars. All proceeds raised from the performances are donated to their chosen charity, the Torrevieja Alzheimerâs Association.
The group recently made their annual donation of â¬5500 to the AFA President, Purificación GarcÃa at the Torrevieja Day Centre.The Stagestruck Players perform twice a month with original scripts written by their director, Leigh Humphries. Some are themed and offer the opportunity for the actors and the audience to dress up, adding an additional element of fun.
During the evening, the actors perform a scenario that ends with one of them being murdered. Our very own Inspector Clouseau or Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope then makes an appearance and takes over the proceedings with hilarious effect.
If this sounds like something you would enjoy, email Leigh at leigh.humphries58@gmail.com and ask to be added to the mailing list. You will be informed of dates and venues of upcoming Murder Mystery events.
Russian Defector Gunned Down in Spain â Murder Case Closed Without Arrests
PUBLISHED: 2025-12-10 17:19:38The shocking murder of Russian helicopter pilot Maxim Kuzminov, who famously defected to Ukraine in 2023, has been closed by the courts with no suspects identified.
Kuzminov, 28, became an international sensation after stealing an MI-8 helicopter from the Russian Army and flying it across the front lines to Kharkiv, providing both the aircraft and military intelligence to Ukraine. Shortly after, he assumed a new identity and settled in La Vila Joiosa, a Spanish town with a large Russian community.
SEE ALSO: Russian defector shot dead in La Vila Joiosa
On February 13, 2024, Kuzminov was found shot eight times in an underground car park. His killers staged an elaborate cover-up, burning his car 16 km away in a remote area of El Campello, seemingly professionals with meticulous planning. Suspicion has long swirled that the Kremlin may have ordered the hit.
Despite months of investigation by the Guardia Civilâs Homicide Unit, the judge has now provisionally dismissed the case, citing a complete lack of evidence to identify the perpetrators. The ruling leaves the shocking assassination officially unsolved â though investigators may reopen it if new evidence emerges.
The case remains a chilling reminder of the deadly reach of international espionage and the unresolved consequences of wartime defections.
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