The Almería City Council will allocate €223,800, plus VAT, to a technical assistance contract for the planning and management of its seasonal beach services. This initiative, driven by the Department of Public Works, Maintenance, Accessibility, and Blue Economy, is planned for three years with a possible two-year extension, commencing on March 1, 2027.
Councilwoman Sacramento Sánchez explained that the goal is to anticipate and plan coastal management to ensure that services, facilities, and equipment meet the desired standards of quality, safety, and accessibility. Currently, management follows the 2024-2027 Municipal Plan, valid until September 2027, after which documentation for the next period (2028-2031) must be processed.
The new 2028-2031 Beach Plan will require the drafting of technical documentation for its annual development and processing. Technical assistance will also cover consultancy for obtaining and maintaining quality certifications, as well as inspection and monitoring of elements and services included in municipal planning.
These tasks encompass crucial aspects of daily beach operations, such as rescue and lifeguarding, cleaning and maintenance of restrooms and showers, management of walkways, shaded areas, signage, access points, buoys, and supervision of third-party concessions, including food and beverage establishments.
Sacramento Sánchez emphasized the importance of a technical tool to verify compliance with plans, identify issues, and continuously evaluate offered services.
Another key objective is to maintain and enhance quality and accessibility standards, facilitating the attainment of accolades like the Blue Flag. The diverse Almería coastline, ranging from urban areas to the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, necessitates rigorous and specialized management.
The technical assistance will strengthen coordination between the Department of Public Works and other municipal services and administrations. The ultimate aim is to optimize facilities, cleanliness, maintenance, safety, and accessibility, ensuring enjoyment of the beaches, particularly for individuals with reduced mobility.
Sánchez concluded that this contract will provide the necessary technical support to plan the next beach management cycle and continuously oversee that municipal services meet these improvement objectives.
