- Unsurprisingly, the council’s unconventional solution was met with fury
Ill-conceived attempts by politicians in Spain‘s Torrevieja to appease residents disgruntled by a newly constructed sports centre obstructing their prized ocean views have only prompted more outrage in the idyllic seaside town.
Torrevieja, known for its large British and Irish expatriate community, has long been a haven for those seeking mild winters and scenic coastal living.
But the recent development of the massive sports complex in the La Mata neighbourhood ignited controversy as residents of a nearby apartment block found their panoramic views of the Mediterranean replaced by a stark brick wall.
To quell the growing dissatisfaction, the Torrevieja City Council devised a rather unconventional solution.
Drawing inspiration from a tactic employed by certain Airbnb hosts – who have been known to post deceptive images of sea views to attract more bookings – the council commissioned a massive mural to be painted on the facade of the sports centre designed to simulate the lost scenery.
Unsurprisingly, the mural – which measures a mammoth 1,000 square metres – has done little to pacify the enraged residents, many of whom complained that the oversized, garish canvas is a waste of money.
The recent development of the massive sports complex in the La Mata neighbourhood ignited controversy
The mural – which measures a mammoth 1,000 square metres – has done little to pacify the enraged residents
Picture shows the giant canvas that replaces the sea view in Torrevieja, Spain, undated
Picture shows the giant canvas that replaces the sea view in Torrevieja, Spain
Torrevieja, known for its large British and Irish expatriate community, has long been a haven for those seeking mild winters and scenic coastal living
The construction of the centre, which reportedly cost some €5 million, was adapted after designers raised the building’s height from initial plans and was completed in March.
The council defended its decision by pointing out that the sports centre had to be built on that particular plot of land, which was municipally owned, and could not have been relocated to another area with more suitable characteristics.
Officials also highlighted the mural’s additional features, including a special chemical treatment that purportedly removes bad odours, bacteria, and air pollution.
But these benefits have done little to soothe the anger of those affected, some of whom claimed they were not informed exactly how large and obstructive the sports centre would be when they purchased their properties.
However, the controversial mural has inadvertently turned the sports centre into an unlikely tourist attraction.
Visitors have flocked to the site, not just to use the facilities but to snap photos of the now-infamous artwork.
Recent reports in Spanish press suggested that resident are considering taking legal action against the council, but it is unclear whether any lawsuits have been filed.
