Parents’ associations and local residents are again calling on the Orihuela Council to resurface the deteriorated access road leading to the IES Playa Flamenca, located at the end of Calle Pavo Real. Despite frequent complaints, the Council has repeatedly stated it cannot act on this road because it crosses private land, even though no fence or markings indicate private ownership.
This is despite the fact that they regularly repair the La Zenia – Villamartin road which is also in private ownership.
The road is heavily used by parents and students accessing the pedestrian footbridge over the AP-7 to reach the school. However, it suffers from significant maintenance issues, including numerous large and deep potholes.
The absence of pavements and proper lighting further exacerbates the risks for pedestrians and drivers alike. Local residents warn that the road poses a serious safety hazard, with the potential for tyre punctures and accidents, especially given the number of children who use the route daily.
Longstanding Complaints and Lack of Action
Parents’ associations and community leaders have expressed frustration with the ongoing neglect. Laura López, representative of the Ampa Gabriel Celaya at the institute, stated that she has repeatedly raised the issue, most recently during a District Council meeting.
According to López, councillor Matías Ruiz acknowledged that the land is private but pointed to Manuel Mestre, the councillor for the Coast, as being responsible.
López emphasized the urgent need for action, stating, “This road is a danger, but all traffic signs force you to go through there. Either they expropriate the land or provide an alternative route for cars.”
Political and Community Advocacy
Former coastal coordinator Antonio Cerdán (CLARO) revealed that his party included resurfacing the road in the electoral program of the Partido Popular (PP), with whom they ran in coalition.
He highlighted prior interventions, noting, “When we held demonstrations, the road was patched up when Ciudadanos managed the Infrastructure Department.” Cerdán also mentioned a pedestrian path constructed across the land to connect the AP-7 walkway with nearby businesses, which are equally frustrated with the road’s poor condition.
The residents argue that the road’s status as private land, which includes a public right of way, should not prevent maintenance. They continue to press for immediate repairs to ensure safety and accessibility for the community.
