Latest Spanish News In English
El periodista británico que elige Barcelona para vivir: \"Me irrita escuchar barceloneses diciendo que Madrid es mejor\"
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-10 06:00:14John Carlin, hijo de padre escocés y madre española, es un periodista de origen británico cuya trayectoria profesional ha estado muy centrada en el deporte. Además, es el escritor de 'Playing the Enemy' ('El factor humano'), el famoso libro que narra la historia de cómo Nelson Mandela utilizó el rugby, un deporte que dividÃa a Sudáfrica durante el apartheid, para unir a todo el paÃs. Tal fue la repercusión de esta obra literaria que la pelÃcula 'Invictus' se inspiró en ella para la trama principal. Por otro lado, Carlin, quien también posee la nacionalidad española y habla muy fluidamente la lengua oficial del Estado, ofreció una entrevista para 'Col·lapse' ('Colapso'), un programa de TV3 emitido todos los sábados por la noche. Se trata de un show que combina entrevistas, humor, música en directo y actuaciones, todo ello con la intención de que cada sábado se viva \"como si fuera la última noche antes de que llegue el fin del mundo\". \"Barcelona es el ligar donde la calidad de vida es mejor\" A lo largo de la participación de este periodista y escritor en el programa, ha comentado las ciudades en las que ha vivido a lo largo de toda su vida, y ha apuntado a una en concreto que se sitúa justo en España. Durante sus declaraciones, las cuales fueron realizadas en 2024, aseguró que durante tan solo un año vivió en \"nueve o diez ciudades del mundo\". Sin embargo, no ha podido evitar decir cuál de todas es su favorita. \"Barcelona es, con mucha diferencia, el lugar que más me gusta, donde me siento más a gusto y donde la calidad de vida es mejor\", asegura. Como conoce distintos destinos, compara a la Ciudad Condal con varias ciudades de todo el mundo. Se le vienen a la cabeza ejemplos como Washington, Londres, Johannesburgo, Managua, Buenos Aires o México, pero ninguna de ellas supera al territorio español antes mencionado. \"Me irrito cuando gente de Barcelona dice que Madrid es mejor\" Una de las cosas que más le irrita a Carlin es encontrarse con catalanes que aseguran que Madrid es mucho mejor. \"Me irrito cuando gente de Barcelona, que es bastante habitual últimamente, dice que Madrid está mucho mejor y no sé qué. Y yo digo: ¿Qué estás diciendo?\", expone. Lo cierto es que pueda haber épocas en las que las rachas sean mejores o peores, en las que, por ejemplo \"la economÃa de Madrid sea más vibrante de repente\". No obstante, esto no significa que la capital española tenga que ser superior a la catalana. \"Objetivamente, Barcelona es obviamente una ciudad muy superior\", declara a la vez que ofrece otra explicación con el mundo del fútbol para que gran parte de la audiencia entienda bien el mensaje que quiere trasladar. \"Barcelona, como ciudad mundial, siempre va a jugar en Champions (máxima competición de clubes europeos) y Madrid siempre va a jugar en la Europa League (segunda competición más importante de equipos de Europa)\", sentencia. \"No hay ninguna ciudad que le quede cerca a Barcelona\" Volviendo al punto de Barcelona como ciudad mundial, John Carlin explica que todos los españoles debemos estar \"más orgullosos de lo que tenemos aquÃ. Es una ciudad de clase mundial\". De hecho, llega a apuntar que está considerada \"por todo el mundo como la gran ciudad del Mediterráneo\". Esto es algo que le deja, prácticamente sin palabras, ya que este es el mar que tiene \"la tremenda historia, la cuna de tanto de la humanidad\". Finalmente, concluye su intervención reflejando que es imposible que ninguna ciudad la supere: \"Y Barcelona... es que no hay ninguna ciudad que le quede cerca\".
Mallorca end pre-season with 2-0 win
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-10 05:21:00Real Mallorca 2 - Hamburg SV 0
Real Mallorca made a good impression on Saturday night beating newly-promoted Bundesliga side Hamburg SV 2-0 in the 47th City of Palma trophy in front of 11,150 fans. A first half goal from Japanese flying machine Asano and a comical own goal from Hamburg defender Muheim in the second half were enough to give Mallorca a morale-boosting win, with the mighty Barcelona coming to town next Saturday night.
Itâs very possible the initial starting XI for Mallorca will be the same that faces Barcelona. However, Samu Costa may be doubtful as he limped off with what looked like a bad knee injury in the seventh minute.
The Germans took no prisoners in this game and some of their tackling was âwell tastyâ to put it mildly! Their skulduggery saw their defender Torunarigha shown a straight red for a scything tackle on a Mallorca defender near the end.
For Mallorca, new signing Pablo Torre looks quality in midfield and goalkeeper Leo Roman made several stunning reflex saves.
Our squad looks thinly stretched and if some key players are injured weâll struggle. We need a top quality centre back, a left winger and if, as expected, Costa leaves, a replacement midfielder. Mallorca end their pre-season on a positive note with the side still in the rebuilding stages in what is going to be a formidable start to the new season.
Katy Perry hit with 6,001⬠fine over Balearic music video filming
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-10 07:06:00The Balearic government has issued a fined to the production company behind Katy Perryâs Lifetimes music video 6,001⬠for filming without permission in a protected area of the Ses Salines Natural Park. The shoot took place at the end of July 2024 in an exclusion zone where access is strictly prohibited. Officials classified the offence as âseriousâ but noted that no additional penalties were applied as there was no evidence of lasting environmental damage.
Europa Press reports that the sanction was handed down after investigators confirmed the company failed to obtain the required permit from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Natural Environment. The unauthorised filming involved entry into a section of the park that is roped off to protect sensitive habitats. Once the penalty was issued, the company promptly settled the fine.
The investigation began in July 2024, following scenes showing Perry and her crew inside the dune of sâEspalmador, an ecologically significant islet forming part of the park. The footage, which also featured locations across Ibiza and Formentera, sparked questions over whether the production had breached environmental regulations. Officials stressed at the time that no filming application had been submitted for the site.
Environmental authorities have long emphasised the importance of preserving sâEspalmador and the neighbouring Ses Illetes beach. Together, they are considered the best-preserved dune system in the Balearics, offering rare habitats for local flora and fauna. The islet has been part of the Ses Salines Natural Park since 1980 and spans roughly 137 hectares.
Once the regional authorities issued the sanction, the company promptly settled the fine. While the Balearic Islands are a popular location for celebrity filming projects, this incident has sparked renewed discussion about balancing the areaâs attractiveness as a filming hotspot with the need to protect its most fragile natural environments. Environmental groups caution that even well-managed high-profile productions could undermine the strict regulations that have long safeguarded these sensitive ecosystems.
Mallorca airport reveals exciting new retail area as major renovations near completion
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-10 07:45:33Palma Airport has been undergoing a major refurbishment for several months, and the end of the project is now in sight. One of the most noticeable changes is the overhaul of Module A, which now boasts a revamped retail zone along with more spacious, open areas. This is just one of the new commercial additions; another significant development is the revamped fourth floor, which previously housed security checks and a terrace.
Among the new shops already welcoming visitors is the largest McDonaldâs in Europe, located on level P30 within the refurbished module. Opened last May, this outlet covers 1,000 square metres and is notable for its advanced features, including 40 digital ordering kiosks and eight distinct food preparation lines. It also offers table service and McCafé options, and employs nearly 200 staff members.
In addition to McDonaldâs, 18 other businesses have launched at the airport. The selection includes well-known eateries such as Enrique Tomás, Deli&Cia, Costa Coffee, and Santo Cristo. The shopping area also includes a Duty Free walkway and a variety of shops offering fashion, gifts, and jewellery, with brands like Majórica, Natura, Mango, Desigual, Stamp, Coolligan, Miniso, and a Barça Store, among others. This mix has helped establish the airport as one of the islandâs largest shopping destinations.
Over the past few weeks, nearly all the retail units in this newly developed area have begun operating, signalling a major milestone in the refurbishment.
As the renovation works enter their final phase, after months of disruption that were particularly noticeable to passengers, Aena anticipates completion next year. This project represents the most significant upgrade the terminal has seen in 25 years.
Among the enhancements already completed is a new security checkpoint that allows travellers to keep their devices and liquids in their hand luggage during screening. The final setup will include 22 security arches and 44 inspection lanes. Additionally, in Module A, the passport control has been moved to a new location, glass panels have been installed, and the number of jet bridges on the west side has increased.
Meanwhile, access to Module D has been improved with three new jet bridges and an extended boarding pier, aimed at smoothing passenger flows for arrivals and departures. The car parkâs seventh floor opened some months ago, adding 750 new parking spaces and being ready for future photovoltaic panel installation. Overall, AENA has invested more than 600 million euros since the work began in 2022 to transform Palma airport.
Man seriously injured in suspected shark attack in Mallorca
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-10 21:03:36A fisherman has been seriously injured after suffering a suspected blue shark bite in Mallorcan waters. The man sustained a deep wound to his right leg that required 30 stitches, and was treated by emergency crews at the scene before being taken to hospital.
The incident happened on Sunday in the Bay of Alcudia. According to his fishing companion, the injured man had been reeling in a catch when it slipped from the hook and fell back into the water. âHe dived in to grab it and felt a powerful bite from something very large,â the friend told local media.
The fisherman managed to break free and clamber back onto the boat, though his companions feared for several tense moments that he might be dragged under. Emergency services arrived swiftly, with paramedics from the SAMU 061 service providing initial treatment before transferring him for surgery.
While it remains unclear what caused the injury, witnesses reported that the bite was V-shaped â consistent with that of a shark â and suggested it may have been a blue shark pursuing the fish.
The attack comes weeks after an 85-year-old Italian tourist suffered a severe wound to her left calf while swimming at Playa de Palma, sparking panic among bathers. Although the species responsible in that case was never confirmed, initial fears also pointed towards a blue shark.
Escape the heat to rejuvenating Roman baths where Julius Caesar once bathed
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-10 17:45:15As summer brings an influx of visitors to the Baños de la Hedionda in Casares, the historic Roman natural baths in Casares, the local council has introduced a free reservation system to manage access during peak daytime hours.
The measure hopes to control the number of visitors inside the iconic domed structure, preserving its significant architectural and historical value.
They say that it was here that the devil exhaled his last breath when he was expelled by Santiago. This is one of the legends that the popular imagination keeps to justify the smell of sulphur from the waters. Known as Baños de la Hedionda, the baths constitute one of the historical landmarks of the Utrera massif and, in general, of all Casares.
These are Ferruginous Sulphurous Baths, located in a beautiful and advantageous place, which man has taken advantage of since Roman times. It is said that Julius Caesar bathed here to cure himself of his war wounds. The enclosure of the spa is right on the banks of the Albarrán stream and very close to the border with the municipality of Manilva.
Reservations, which are completely free, can be made through Eventbrite for August and September visits, with booking links available on the councilâs official channels. This initiative ensures the protection of the site, known for its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Visitors are urged to respect the environment by refraining from removing mud from the baths. Authorities stress that while the water is believed to have therapeutic properties, the mud does not, and its removal causes deliberate harm to the site. âTaking mud damages the environment,â the council stated, calling on visitors to help preserve this cherished location.
Casares Town Hall has expressed gratitude to the public for cooperating in the conservation of this unique historical and natural treasure. For more information or to book a visit, check the Eventbrite links for August, and September. Follow this link for the coordinates.
Thaderâs Friendly Marathon rolls on with Mixed Midweek Results
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-10 08:20:48CD THADER â' 1 ORIHUELA CF â' 2
CD THADER â' 1 HERCULES CF ¨B¨ â' 3
BY STEVE HIBBERD
Two midweek matches, both inside Moi Gomez Stadium, continued Thader´s mammoth run of pre season friendlies.
For the first game on Wednesday, the number of visiting fans far outnumbered the local Thader supporters. Without exaggeration, there must have been close on a combined total of a thousand, which is probably twice the amount of that for a home league match.
Orihuela play in the 2nd federation division, which is 2 steps above where Thader are in the system. For some unknown reason, Thader elected to wear their new green away shirts, and to add to the confusion, Orihuela donned yellow (a colour Thader normally use for away matches!!).
Camilo slammed the ball against the post on 12 mins, as the visitors took the early initiative. But, less than a min later, Thader took the lead in bizarre circumstances.
Under no pressure, just inside his own half, Orihuela full back Sheffield, inexplicably hoofed a back pass to his keeper Buigues. Way off his line, Buigues could only watch in horror as the ball sailed over him into the net.
Midway through the half, Orihuela had a goal disallowed for offside.
A rare Thader attack on 38 mins, resulted in Robin being sent flying inside the penalty area, but alas a penalty was not forthcoming. As the half neared it´s conclusion, Sergio pulled off a stunning diving save to deny a Munafo header squaring proceedings, then Robin headed a Thader free kick wide of the far post.
Sergio was again called into action on 50 mins, when he pushed aside a goal bound strike by Rivera, as Orihuela fans started cranking up the noise level. Monterde was denied a goal due to another offside decision on 80 mins, but from the next attack, Solsana levelled the scores, when he chipped the ball over Sergio.
Inside a minute later, Monterde was brought down in the box, allowing Solana to score his brace from the spot, and give Orihuela a deserved victory.
Forty eight hours later, a visit by newly promoted Hercules ¨B¨ (a step up from the Community league, which Thader compete in), was another stern test for Raul Mora´s men. Although Tremino scored a well worked goal on 20 mins, they eventually succumbed to a 1-3 defeat.
Next Weds, 13 Aug, Thader must travel to fellow Vega Baja side Guardamar, then on Sat 16 Aug, Torrellano will visit Moi Gomez Stadium, Rojales (both these friendlies are expected to be 8pm kos).
The Leader Newspaper 11 August 25 / Edition 1088
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-10 12:01:00A tense rescue unfolded Friday morning along Torreviejaâs famous Juan Aparicio seafront, when a 35-year-old Belgian man became trapped between massive rocks in the natural pools formed by the breakwaters. Thankfully there was a happy ending.
In a twist of irony that will not be lost on residents, the long-awaited contract to operate the three remaining unopened beach bars on the Orihuela Costa has gone to ADEM Levante S.L., better known as Chiringuitos del Sol â the same company previously embroiled in disputes over beach bar operations in the area.
The award covers the Chiringuitos on Punta Prima, Cala Mosca (Playa Flamenca) and Cala Estaca (Playa Flamenca). The bars will now open in the coming days.
No Bull as Spain Plans a 300-Metre Landmark
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-10 08:10:35Spain is planning to build a colossal 300-metre-tall metal bull sculpture, aiming to create a new national landmark and tourist attraction. Promoted by the Spanish Academy of Bullfighting, the project, called The Bull of Spain, hopes to rival iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty.
The sculpture would depict a fighting bull and be funded entirely by private investment. The Academy is currently searching for a town with strong visitor numbers and good transport connections to host the monument. The chosen location would benefit economically, sharing in the projectâs profits through increased tourism and local business activity.
Madrid was initially considered but rejected the idea, so discussions are underway with other municipalities. Unlike the smaller, widely recognized Osborne bullsâlarge black silhouettes scattered across Spainâthe new statue would be on a much grander scale.
At 300 metres high, the bull would feature panoramic viewing points in its horns, offering visitors sweeping views of the surroundings. A cultural and tourist complex at the base would include themed restaurants, shops, exhibitions, and activities centered on bullfighting, which is legally recognized as part of Spainâs cultural heritage.
Jorge Ãlvarez, president of the Spanish Academy of Bullfighting, said, âAll tourists take a bull with them as a souvenir. Why not give them one they can never forget?â
The project joins a recent trend in Spain of ambitious monument construction, such as the ongoing build of what will be the worldâs largest statue of Christ near Madrid.
The giant bull raises questions about whether it will become a proud emblem of Spanish heritage or be seen by some as a controversial and outdated symbol celebrating bullfighting culture.
Image: Academia Española de Tauromaquia
Mohammed Salah calls out UEFAÂ
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-10 21:55:18Soccer superstar Mohamed Salah called out the European Union Football Association (UEFA) on Saturday, August 9th, because of its limited statement after Palestinian footballer Suleiman Al-Obeid was killed in Gaza.
The Egyptian Liverpool forward, the highest-profile Arab player in the game, pointedly noted that the post by UEFA did not refer to the circumstances of Al-Obeidâs death.
Al-Obeid, who during his playing days was part of the Palestinian national team, was killed by an Israeli strike targeting civilians waiting for aid in southern Gaza, according to the Palestine Football Association (PFA).
âCan you tell us how he died?â
âFarewell to Suleiman al-Obeid, the âPalestinian Peléâ,â UEFA posted on X on Friday. âA talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times.â
Salah responded to the post on Saturday: âCan you tell us how he died, where, and why?â His remark quickly gained traction online, with more than 840,000 likes by Saturday night.
The Liverpool player and Egypt star has consistently voiced sympathy for those in Gaza throughout the conflict. Two years ago, he donated to the Egyptian Red Crescent to help fund its relief efforts in the region.
More than 100 goals
ââDuring his long career, al-Obeid, 41, scored more than 100 goals, making him one of the brightest stars of Palestinian football,â it said.
His talent on the pitch earned him the nickname of âthe Palestinian Peléâ â' a nod to the legendary Brazilian widely hailed as one of the greatest players of all time.
Obeidâs death added to a growing toll of athletes lost in Gaza since the war began, with at least 662 sportspeople and their relatives reported to have been killed.
âThe number of footballers killed or who died from starvation has reached 421, including 103 children,â the PFA said.
More than 1,300 Palestinians are reported to have been killed in the vicinity of aid distribution points managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation since the US- and Israeli-backed logistic groupâs launch in late May, according to the Guardian.
Locals Drive Change for Rural Road Safety
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-09 22:15:36After voicing their concerns, residents of Pinar de Campoverde will soon benefit from important repairs to the rural road Lo Romero-El Pinar. Currently in poor condition, the road connects the community directly to San Pedro del Pinatar. These improvements will allow drivers to more safely utilise the route, which provides the fastest connection between the two areas and allows travelers to avoid crossing traffic-heavy Pilar de la Horadada.
While the section of the road within Murcia is already in good condition, the stretch belonging to Pilar de la Horadada is damaged, narrow, and a safety hazard. In the petition to repair the road, organiser Sara Henarejos wrote that many residents âhave punctured or slashed the tyres of [their] cars due to the poor state of the asphalt in this area,â noting that many sections have potholes and sharp edges.
The town council was quick to respond, with Mayor José MarÃa Pérez addressing the issue on Radio Orihuela Cadena SER. According to Pérez, repairs to the asphalt and road shoulders are scheduled to begin shortly. However, road widening is a much longer and more extensive project that requires studies before work can begin.
Although the government is unable to meet all resident requests at this time, the scheduled maintenance work will greatly enhance safety and comfort for many users of the route. This initiative will also strengthen connectivity between neighbouring areas and support everyday mobility.
Fire on Mount Vesuvius sparks alarm after being mistaken for volcanic eruption
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-09 21:23:07A large wildfire burning since Saturday August 8 on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius near Naples has caused alarm after the flames were mistaken for a possible volcanic eruption.
Since Saturday morning, four planes, four helicopters, and over 100 firefighters have been battling the blaze, which is affecting the Terzigno and Boscotrecase parks, Italian media report.
âThe situation remains serious,â said the Vesuvius National Park last night, adding hopes that the fire can be brought under control as more resources arrive throughout the day.
Protect natural heritage
âWe are monitoring the fire minute by minute in close contact with the relevant authorities,â said Raffaele De Luca, president of the National Park. âWe are grateful to the ground crews and aircraft pilots working tirelessly. Our priority is to protect our natural heritage and the safety of those living and working near the volcano.â
Local residents say the air has become difficult to breathe, expressing concerns about changing wind directions, according to La Repubblica.
All available resources
Mayors of Terzigno, Ottaviano, San Giuseppe, and Boscotrecase have called for military support, as was deployed during the summer of 2017. Biagio Simonetti, mayor of Ottaviano, said: âOur absolute priority now is to put out the flames and protect our land. We are deploying all available resources alongside government delegates, police, firefighters, civil protection and neighbouring municipalities.â
Mount Vesuvius is one of Europeâs most famous and dangerous volcanoes, known for its catastrophic eruption in AD 79 that destroyed the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Since then, the volcano has erupted many times, with the most recent eruption occurring in 1944.
Volcanic activity
The surrounding area is densely populated, making any volcanic activity or related emergencies, such as wildfires on its slopes, a serious cause for concern.
Volcanic eruptions can vary widely in scale and impact, from gentle lava flows to explosive blasts that send ash and gas high into the atmosphere. These eruptions can cause widespread damage to local communities, disrupt air travel, and affect climate conditions temporarily.
Fire outbreaks on volcanic slopes, whether caused by natural factors or human activity, can complicate emergency responses and heighten public anxiety due to the volcanoâs unpredictable nature.
UK purposely leaks radioactive water into sea near Glasgow
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-09 21:25:58In an exclusive report published on Saturday, August 9th, The Guardian has made public official files that reveal that the Royal Navy released radioactive water into the sea near Glasgow because of a failure to maintain 1,500 water pipes properly.
The radioactive material was released into Loch Long, a sea loch near Glasgow in western Scotland, because the Royal Navy failed to properly maintain a network of 1,500 water pipes on the base, a regulator found,â the Guardian reported..
The British outlet, known for its exclusive undercover investigations, said the armaments depot at Coulport on Loch Long is one of the most secure and secretive military sites in the United Kingdom. There, the Royal Navy has a supply of nuclear warheads for its fleet of four Trident submarines, which are based nearby.
Outdated components
The files The Guardian has revealed were compiled by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa), a government pollution watchdog. The documents suggest that up to half the components at the base were beyond their design life when the leaks occurred.
In one report in 2022, the agency blamed the leaks on the navyâs repeated failure to maintain the equipment in the area used for storing the warheads, and said plans to replace 1,500 old pipes at risk of bursting were less than optimal.
The leaks are revealed in a cache of confidential inspection reports and emails given to the investigative website the Ferret and shared with the Guardian, which Sepa and the Ministry of Defence fought to keep secret.
Actual or high potential for radioactive release
The Ferret reported in May 2025 that 12 nuclear incidents could have leaked radioactivity at Faslane since 2023. The Ministry of Defence said the incidents had âactual or high potential for radioactive release to the environmentâ â' but it refused to give any details of what happened, Ferret added.
On this past Monday, August 5th, Sepa released 33 files to The Ferret, with the names of some specific plants and dates redacted. They disclosed for the first time the problems that the Royal Navy had been having with pipes bursting and flooding parts of the âTrident Special Areaâ at Coulport.
David Cullen, a UK nuclear weapons expert from the BASIC nuclear think tank in London, described the repeated pollution incidents as âshockingâ and the attempts to keep them secret as âoutrageousâ.
Billions down the drain
âThe MoD is almost 10 years into a nearly 2 billion pounds infrastructure programme at Faslane and Coulport, and yet they didnât have a proper asset management system as recently as 2022,â Cullen said. âThis negligent approach is far too common in the nuclear weapons programme, and is a direct consequence of a lack of oversight,â he added.
âThere are few sites as dangerous and where an accident or shoddy maintenance could have such potentially catastrophic consequences,â said the partyâs co-leader, Patrick Harvie MSP.
While Sepa said radioactivity levels in that incident were very low and did not endanger human health, it found there were âshortfalls in maintenance and asset management that led to the failure of the coupling that indirectly led to the production of unnecessary radioactive wasteâ.
Catral Advances Plans for Urgent Care Centre
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-09 21:50:03In order to discuss urgent improvements to the townâs healthcare services, JoaquÃn Lucas, the mayor of Catral, and the Councillor for Health, Daniel Escudero met with Dr. Dario Medina, the new Managing Director of Health Department 21 of the Vega Baja, and Dr. Aránzazu SeguÃ, the Medical Director of Primary Care.
Gathering at the Town Hall, local officials stressed the priority need for a health centre in Catral that offers continuous medical care and a 24-hour Continuous Care Point (PAC), which provides urgent medical attention outside of regular primary care hours. Such a facility would enable quicker, more effective treatment for Catral residents, particularly in emergencies, and would help reduce the burden on hospital emergency rooms.
The Town Hall also called for an increase in emergency medical transport services, and they have requested more SAMU (Advanced Life Support) and SVB (Basic Life Support) units in the area. With Catralâs growing population and evolving healthcare needs, this would ensure faster, higher-quality urgent care.
Mayor Lucas noted that the government of Catral is committed to giving residents the health services they deserve, underlining his administrationâs determination to improve the townâs medical infrastructure.
The meeting forms part of the Catral councilâs ongoing action plan to strengthen healthcare provision and reinforce resources within the Vega Baja public health system. The overall goal is to guarantee quality care and accessible services for all residents.
Orihuela Upgrades Waste Collection Fleet
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-09 22:22:09Theyâve finally arrived. Orihuela is getting four new solid waste collection trucks after years of reliance on an outdated, breakdown-prone fleet that caused issues with the quality and timeliness of garbage collection. This upgrade is a welcome change that will surely improve the lives of residents and workers alike.
Although five new trucks were purchased, only four were actually presented publicly at a ceremony in the historic center of Orihuela. The vehicles will primarily serve the coastal urbanisations, which deal with the highest volume of waste, especially during summer months when the population triples.
Enabling more efficient routes and better service planning, the new trucks feature modern compaction systems and GPS tracking. With a two-year warranty, the trucks will also be guaranteed reliability during this intensive initial period. The fifth truck is set to join the fleet shortly after registration completion.
Mayor Pepe Vegara emphasised how the fleet renewal responds to residentsâ and workersâ demands for modern, safe, and sufficient service. Additionally, Solid Waste Councillor RocÃo Ortuño noted that the new vehicles will improve working conditions for waste collection staff, which is a major priority.
Part of a larger investment exceeding â¬1.2 million, the fleet renewal complements the recent upgrade of over 1,600 waste containers in Orihuela. This commitment demonstrates Orihuelaâs dedication to maintaining a cleaner and healthier environment for all.
Bid Battle for Historic Tabarca Hotel
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-09 22:09:12The future of the iconic Hotel Casa del Gobernador in Tabarca has attracted massive interest this past week. Seven companies have submitted bids for the 15-year management concession of this iconic 18th-century building, with offers ranging from â¬280,455 to â¬1,748,554 â' over ten times higher than the minimum starting bid of â¬160,141.
Contenders include Poseidón Water Sports S.L., Paladar 2012 S.L., Hotel Boutique Isla de Tabarca S.L. (the current operator), Lunetoile Ocio S.L., Hotel Polamar S.L., Transportes MarÃtimos Nueva Tabarca S.L., and a joint venture formed by Simpro Proyectos S.L.U., Jengibre S.L., and ATM Muhc S.L.
The three-star hotel currently has 15 rooms â' a family room, 13 standard double rooms, and one double room adapted for guests with reduced mobility. While upgrades are possible with approval from the regional tourism department, the winning bidder must, at least, maintain these standards.
Located within the former Governorâs House, the hotel is a carefully restored historic property that must remain open year-round. During the low season, a maximum closure of three months is permitted. The concession will be awarded with no possibility of extension, replacing the outgoing 10-year agreement.
The winning bid is expected to be announced in October, and the new operator is set to take over within a month. This arrangement will ensure the historical and cultural preservation of this unique island property.
Guardamar Supports Students with Transport Grants
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-09 22:01:58Students commuting beyond Guardamar del Segura can now apply for grants to help with transportation costs during the 2025/2026 academic year, as the Town Hall has announced their transport aid program.
In an effort to support displaced students, this initiative seeks to ease the financial burden of commuting to schools or educational centres beyond the town limits. It was approved on August 4, 2025, by the Junta de Gobierno Local, and has an allocated budget of â¬30,000.
Eligible students include those enrolled in vocational training and university degrees and masterâs programs. Those enrolled in other educational programs like arts, sports, language schools, and university access courses for over-25s also qualify. Distance and blended learning courses are excluded.
Applicants must be under 31 years old, registered residents of Guardamar for at least one year, and meet specific financial and administrative criteria. The aid amount varies and is based on a number of factors including family income, distance to the educational centre, and other special circumstances such as disability or social exclusion.
Applications, which are open from August 9 to August 23, must be submitted via the Town Hallâs electronic headquarters or in person at the municipal registry.
This program reflects the local governmentâs commitment to ensuring that all youth have access to quality education by aiming to reduce potential financial or systemic barriers.
Letters Provide Peek into Crevillentâs Carpet History
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-09 22:46:37Sign up for personalised news
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Man Rescued from Torrevieja Rocks
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-09 22:27:36At around 10am on Friday, August 8, a 35-year-old Belgian man slipped and became trapped between the rocks of the breakwater along Torreviejaâs Juan Aparicio promenade. Though it was a challenging rescue that lasted about two hours, the efficiency and determination of local emergency services freed the man and brought him to safety.
Thanks to the teamwork of the Torrevieja fire department and the crucial assistance of a crane truck provided by the local company Acciona, rescuers successfully lifted the heavy stones to free the trapped man. Firefighters highlighted the essential role of Torrevieja Town Hall in facilitating this support by coordinating with Acciona to provide the crane. Without this specialised equipment, the firefighters would have had to use hydraulic tools, which would have been much riskier for both the man and the rescuers.
Fortunately, the individual sustained only minor injuries, suffering from some scratches and a few bruises. He was quickly attended to with oxygen at the scene before being transported for further medical care.
The natural pools of Torrevieja have been a beloved summer destination since 1999, and when safety advice is respected, they offer a beautiful and safe place to enjoy the sea. The combined efforts of emergency services and public awareness help keep Torreviejaâs beaches safe and welcoming for all.
Gran Alacant Social Centre Reopens
PUBLISHED: 2025-08-09 22:34:05To bring essential social services closer to neighbourhood residents, the Town Hall has reopened the Gran Alacant Social Centre, located in the Evoca Living shopping centre on Monte de Santa Pola Street. With social workers, a psychologist, and an educator, the center has been operating Monday to Friday from 9am to 2pm since early July and continues to provide the same services as before its reopening.
Additionally, the councillor in charge explained that services currently offered at the Santa Pola Civic and Social Centre will gradually be transferred to Gran Alacant based on community needs. The plan is to progressively introduce six new services in the coming months.
Among these offerings, residents will have access to legal advice and support from a law graduate, and individuals with chronic illness will be able to receive specialised psychological care. The centre will also provide intervention services for vulnerable children and adolescents, focusing specifically on those facing risk, neglect, or legal protection measures.
Furthermore, the centre will support people at risk of social exclusion and promote equality and non-discrimination, with particular attention to gender issues. Another key goal is to simultaneously prevent risks related to drug use, addictive behaviours, problematic technology, and gambling while encouraging healthy lifestyle habits.
With these enhanced services, the reopened Gran Alacant Social Centre represents a significant step toward improving community well-being and accessibility to vital support.
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