The situation of homelessness in the Nueva Andalucía neighborhood of Almería has escalated, transforming from an occasional issue into a constant and visible problem. Residents report the occupation of parking lots, building entrances, and commercial areas, with scenes of people sleeping between vehicles and in pedestrian access points, particularly around the shopping center and the National Police park.
This problem, which has intensified in recent months, is no longer confined to a single spot. It has spread to arcades and commercial premises entrances, affecting key areas like Avenida Montserrat and Blas Infante street, where residents claim the situation has become entrenched.
“"This is not getting better, it's getting worse, and it's increasingly dire. The situation is escalating over time and requires an urgent response."
The core of the problem is linked to the Municipal Shelter, whose capacity is insufficient for current demand, leading many individuals to remain outdoors. Carlos López, a neighborhood representative, highlights that the shelter, once peripheral, is now located in the heart of the city, surrounded by nurseries, schools, and thousands of homes. He also points out that some individuals struggle with addictions or maladjustment, which complicates their entry into the shelter and contributes to the concentration in the neighborhood.
Neighborhood complaints include incidents of unsanitary conditions, accumulation of waste, and improper use of public space, with blankets, cardboard, and food scraps observed in areas such as the parking lot next to Carrefour. These complaints have been formally submitted to the Andalusian Ombudsman, who has already accepted a complaint for processing and will request information from the competent administration.
In response to this situation, residents of Nueva Andalucía have formed a citizen platform to channel their demands and maintain contact with political representatives. They consider the problem structural and call for broader intervention, including more resources for assisting homeless individuals and a review of the current shelter model. PSOE councilors have also presented municipal initiatives, warning about “serious unsanitary situations” and proposing increased police presence, periodic cleaning plans, and reinforcement of social services.
