Orihuela Council is to invest more than €18,000 in creating a new picnic and rest area at Soto de Desamparados.
The environmental improvement project will include the installation of picnic tables and stone benches, together with their transportation and fitting. The new furniture will replace benches that were removed because of their poor condition.
Environment councillor Noelia Grao said the riverside nature area is popular with residents and visitors and provides health, environmental and social benefits. She said the new seating would encourage people to spend more time there, improve the appearance and usability of the site and provide opportunities for rest and social interaction.
The Segura River Basin Authority has granted Orihuela Council the use of Soto de Desamparados for 40 years. Under the agreement, the council is responsible for its maintenance, conservation and associated costs.
Funding will come through a transfer between municipal budget allocations, creating a new allocation of €19,795.60 for the project.
