A new chapter in territorial transformation
The Marina Alta coast is facing a new urban challenge with the Pego Golf project. This initiative, which adds to other developments such as those of La Serreta and La Llobella, promises to transform the region with the construction of more than 2,500 homes, hotels, a golf course and a horse riding. This expansion, promoted by Construcciones Hispano Germanas, will be located in an area that currently houses orange and is near the Pego-Oliva marsh, an ecosystem of significant ecological value, but faces high urban pressure.
Environmental impact and community concerns
María José, an activist from the Pego Viu Association, has expressed concerns about the environmental impact of the project, noting that its environmental impact statement has been expired since 2012 and does not address the flood areas that could affect the new urbanization. Despite this, the municipal government, led by the PSOE, defends the project, arguing that its cancellation could generate high costs for the consistory.
The response from the neighborhood and the social organization
In response to the concerns generated, Pego’s neighbors have formed the Guaitem la Terra Assembly, a platform dedicated to informing and mobilizing the community against the PAI. Josep, one of the members, has shown that the declassification of the land would not imply costs for the people, since the promoter has not made significant investments that justify compensation.
Concerns about water resources and housing
One of the most important criticism against the PAI is its potential overload of water resources. With the construction of so many new homes, Josep warns that water demand could exceed the current capacity, affecting the supply and increasing wastewater, at the risk of contaminating the marsh.
Negative socioeconomic effects
The Garrot Group has expressed concerns about how the project can contribute to an economic model based on residential tourism, which would move the local economy to a visitors’ service approach, adversely affecting access to housing for the native population and increasing prices. This could lead to a larger impoverishment in the community, with a poverty rate that is already 25.2%.
Proposed mobilization and alternatives
In order to counteract this model, the Pego Viu Association proposes a series of policies that prioritize local needs, such as improvement in waste and water management, and support for local trade and agriculture. Josep concludes with the idea that the responsibility of finding alternatives is in those that govern, but they will not accept that the natural and cultural heritage of the community be sacrificed.
