Orihuela Council has opened the tender process for a municipal service to prevent and control pine processionary caterpillars across the entire municipality.
The contract, promoted by the Department of the Environment, aims to tackle the pest before it spreads and reduce the risks it poses to residents, pets, urban trees and forested areas.
The work will include specific treatments and control measures in affected areas, particularly public spaces, parks, green areas and natural environments where pine trees are present.
The initial contract will run for two years, with the option of a one-year extension. The annual tender budget is €29,488.39, including VAT, with a total value of €58,976.78 over the first two years.
Environment councillor Noelia Grao said the contract would strengthen the maintenance and protection of the municipality’s green spaces by allowing preventive action against a pest that requires annual monitoring and treatment.
Grao added that the pine processionary does not only damage trees, but can also cause health problems for residents, especially children, as well as pets.
The council said the service will make it possible to act ahead of the periods when the caterpillars are most likely to proliferate, using pest control treatments and cleaning work in sensitive areas.
Interested companies have until 14 May to submit their bids.
