The Central Market of Lucena has recently incorporated an integral air conditioning system, addressing a long-standing demand from vendors and improving the conditions of the municipal facility. This upgrade, operational since late July, aims to modernize the premises and boost the commercial activity of the space.
The Councilor for Commerce, Francisco Barbancho, highlighted the importance of this intervention, stating it was "long demanded by the merchants, who for years had to resort to various temporary solutions to cope with high temperatures inside the building during the hot months."
The total investment amounts to 80,000 euros. Of this sum, 30,000 euros come from a grant by the Junta de Andalucía, aimed at improving commerce and craftsmanship in the region, while the remaining 50,000 euros were funded by municipal resources.
The project has equipped the market with air conditioning units and a network of ducts. Concurrently, part of the lighting has been replaced and improved for more direct illumination of the stalls, and a new fire protection system has been installed, completing the facility upgrades.
The Commerce Delegation continues to work on revitalizing the Central Market by organizing social, cultural, and musical activities. The goal is to attract new audiences, promote the consumption of local and nearby products, and highlight the commercial offerings and personalized service characteristic of the market's establishments.
Currently, the Central Market boasts an occupancy rate close to 90 percent and remains a key traditional commercial hub in Lucena. Francisco Barbancho indicated that "from the Lucena City Council, we will continue working with the vendors to progressively improve their facilities and functionality, while preserving its character and essence as a place for shopping and gathering." Furthermore, the necessary actions to improve the closure of an access door are being studied to prevent climate control loss and optimize the new system's performance.
