A protest with a clear message
Around 100 residents have blocked the TP-2031 road in El Catllar, with the aim of making their voices heard about the deficiencies affecting the municipality’s housing developments. This mobilization, organized by the APUDEC Homeowners Association, reflects the frustration of many residents with the lack of basic services.
Neighbors’ demands: a better future
Participants in the demonstration have expressed concerns about the inadequacy of public lighting and the poor quality of the asphalt on their streets. Anna Quílez, representative of APUDEC, stressed that the situation of interurban transport is unacceptable: “It’s not that it’s deficient, it’s that it simply doesn’t exist. Every time we need to access the town, we have to do it in a private vehicle.”
The City Council’s position
Mayor Xavier Canadell defended the municipal management, assuring that the housing developments have their basic needs covered and that up to six of them are expected to be received next year. Currently, of the 28 existing housing developments, 22 have not been received, a fact that limits the City Council’s action in these areas.
Legal obstacles in the way
The residents’ requests face legal barriers, as Urban Planning regulations prevent the City Council from intervening in housing developments that have not been approved. In order to do so, the owners must complete the pending works, including the sewerage system in some cases.
Municipal commitment to improving services
The council has issued a statement expressing its intention to collaborate with residents to facilitate the reception of the developments. It has also committed to offering technical and legal support to help with the necessary transformation that will allow compliance with current regulations.
A future with hope
Despite the difficulties, the Catllar City Council is already taking on services such as garbage collection and the maintenance of some infrastructure, and has increased its security staff. With a significant investment in surveillance technology, the council seeks to guarantee the safety and well-being of residents.
Reflections on citizen mobilization
The Catllar demonstration is an example of how citizens can unite to demand improvements in their environment. The City Council’s response to these concerns will be decisive for social cohesion and the quality of life of residents. Residents, with the support of APUDEC, will continue to fight for a brighter and more dignified future for their urban areas.