The Paseo de las Explanadas, a central hub in Motril located at the foot of the Santuario de la Virgen de la Cabeza, began its comprehensive renovation in March 2025. Initially, a nine-month timeline and an investment of nearly two million euros were announced, aiming for a profound transformation while preserving its original character. However, over a year later, the project remains unfinished, leading to growing impatience among the public.
The works, which started on March 21, 2025, have encountered numerous setbacks. By September, when completion was initially expected, the Motril City Council reported only 60% execution, and Mayor Luisa García Chamorro set December as the new deadline. Nevertheless, the arrival of autumn brought further delays due to issues such as water infiltrations into neighboring garages, unexpected manholes, and the loss of subcontractors.
Despite promises from the Public Works Councilor, José Balderas, that the promenade would be ready by the end of 2025, the work was not declared finished until January 10. Problems persisted, as the new appearance of the area was deemed "deficient" by the mayor herself. Out of 24,000 tiles installed, between 300 and 400 were damaged, and the grass had to be removed and replanted. Consequently, the council decided not to accept the work until it met satisfactory conditions, extending the deadline to March 10.
It's good that they're fixing the promenade, but the prolonged duration of the works ultimately harms us. After all, it's clear they're not better than before, and that has affected our terraces. People used to stroll, sit on the benches, and that brought life.
The lack of information and the extended duration of the works have led to dissatisfaction among residents and business owners. A resident named Laura describes the situation as an "endless story," lamenting having to walk around the square to get home and the misuse of the unfinished site by some individuals. Local businesses have also expressed concern about the negative impact on their activities.
Various political parties have criticized the project's management. From Centrados en Motril, its general secretary, José Luis Chica, has labeled it a "poorly planned project" and a "botch job," denouncing the lack of planning. Izquierda Unida has demanded "timely and truthful" explanations for the delays, while the Socialist Party of Motril has pointed out the "failure to fulfill promises" and inadequate municipal management, especially considering the nearly two million euro investment.
