Orihuela’s government is proposing a significant increase in revenue through the expansion of regulated parking (ORA) on the coast. The plan is outlined in the new budget, set for an extraordinary plenary session on Friday.
The government aims to raise €575,000 in 2025 from the ORA system, a sharp increase of €374,632 (187%) compared to 2024, when revenue was €200,368.
Expansion of Regulated Parking
This surge in revenue is linked to the introduction of regulated parking zones on the Orihuela Costa during the peak summer months of July, August, and September. During this period, parking enforcement in the city will be suspended.
While the initiative is in its early stages, the municipal company Ildo, which oversees the service, is expected to manage the coastal blue zones. However, the specific details of Ildo’s mandate are still being finalized.
Delayed Approvals and Planned Changes
The PSOE previously criticised the government for delays in approving the management mandate, which expired in June 2024. Proposals in the ORA file include adding 1,200 parking spaces on the coast, changes to city centre parking zones, discounts for large families, and suspending collection during summer afternoons.
Broader Revenue Increases
The budget predicts €3.09 million in administrative concessions revenue for 2025, an 82% increase from €1.7 million the previous year. This includes additional income from services like water management, with fees projected to rise from €518,447 in 2024 to €660,000 in 2025 (a 27% increase).
Concessions from beach kiosks (chirunguitos) will generate the most significant revenue boost. Representing 55.68% of administrative concession income, these kiosks are expected to bring in over €1.6 million. Specific lots, such as Cala Bosque and Cala Capitán (€802,814), and La Caleta and Aguamarina (€403,881), have already been awarded, while Lot 1, including Punta Prima, remains pending.
Green Zones and Fines
Ildo is also preparing to take over maintenance of the Costa’s green areas, a service previously outsourced. Activities were scheduled to begin on January 3, following delays.
Additionally, Orihuela anticipates increased revenue from fines for traffic and urban violations, with a projected €2.49 million in 2025, slightly higher than the €2.615 million estimated for 2024.
With these measures, Orihuela aims to boost its municipal revenue while expanding services on the coast.
