- “I would have liked it to remain open too, but the law must be followed,” stated Mayor Mario Pérez Cervera.
It has been a long time since Los Alcázares faced such a contentious issue. The Council’s recent decision to shut down ‘El Chinguirito,’ which had been operating without a permit since 1991, has sparked widespread debate.
While acknowledging the backlash, the Council maintains that legal compliance was the decisive factor in closing an establishment that has been a cornerstone of the municipality’s tourism and social scene.
“A few years ago, we received a report suggesting that some kiosks might be operating illegally. Nine kiosks had been in business even before the promenade was completed, fully aware that they needed to regularize their situation with regard to permits.
This was not just a legal matter but also a question of safety and ensuring proper guarantees for users,” explained Mayor Mario Pérez Cervera, who has faced a challenging week dealing with the fallout.
“For over a year, we have held regular discussions on this issue. We informed the owners that if they had alternative proposals, we were open to considering them,” he added.
However, the Council believes that the management of ‘El Chinguirito’ did not fully anticipate closure as a real possibility. When bidding processes for the kiosks were announced, only one bidder stepped forward.
“That was when the administrative complaints began. In November and February of this year, they requested precautionary measures, which the judge ultimately denied,” said the mayor. “They were warned informally,” he explained.
The community reaction has been mixed, combining disappointment with an understanding of legal necessity. “I understand the sentiment, and that’s why we have approached this issue with sensitivity. There is sorrow because ‘El Chinguirito’ is a historic venue, but at the same time, we must ensure that all businesses have equal opportunities to operate in the area. I, too, would have liked it to remain open,” the mayor admitted.
Reflecting on the broader implications, he added, “Establishments like ‘El Chinguirito’ endured the worst of the pandemic and played a crucial role in revitalizing the social and economic fabric of Los Alcázares. Now that the Mar Menor is experiencing a resurgence in tourism and social well-being, another business will eventually take its place. These families have significantly contributed to the area’s growth, but unfortunately, the law does not account for such sentimental or historical factors. We knew this decision would be difficult, but legal obligations must be upheld. Cartagena is currently undergoing a similar bidding process,” he said.
