Almeria Illegal homes pledge

A solution to the problem of 'illegal' homes facing the threat of demolition is near.

A solution to the problem of ‘illegal’ homes facing the threat of demolition is near.

 

Esteban Gonzalez Pons, Vice Secretary General for research and programmes of the governing Partido Popular political party in Spain, pledged that the demolition of ‘illegal’ homes “will not happen again in the future.”

That drew rapturous applause from a packed meeting in Fines where he was speaking to members of AUAN (Association of Britons affected by planning irregularities in the Valley of Almanzora).

In his speech, Pons spelled out several changes to the current system including changes in legislation.

Many home owners who bought their houses in good faith complete with building licences from town halls have found themselves in a legal limbo after the Junta de Andalucia regional government withdrew the licences.

It said they should never have been given in the first place.

Several homes have been demolished, with hundreds more facing the possibility of demolition orders.

Pons promised “full transparency of regulations to protect good faith in purchases and to prevent corruption. We will continue defending the more appropriate persons, to legalise your houses while protecting the environment.”

He continued: “We know this is a problem that should not be left because most of the people suffering in this situation are elderly people. An imminent solution is near.”
“I just want to say one thing. Our presence here today is proof; proof of our commitment with your problem. Your problem is our problem.”

Maura Hillen, President of AUAN said: “We wanted a good turnout from affected residents tonight. The room had a seated capacity of 700, yet it was standing room only, and people were spilling over outside so we are very pleased.’

In a private meeting prior to Pons’ speech, AUAN met with SOHA (Save Our Homes in Axarquia), Len and Helen Prior (whose home was demolished and who are still awaiting compensation), and senior PP politicians, including Andalucia PP’s president Gabriel Amat, and Geraldo Vazquez (lawyer for AUAN, SOHA and other related associations representing 40,000 homeowners).

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Comments


    • John Gardner

      08 May 2014 • 14:05

      Well done Maura Hillen but I will remind you of something: Thirty years ago when I first bought a house in Spain the exact same things were happening. Thirty years from now I bet they will still be happening and the same hollow political words will ring as truth in the ears of those who wish to believe it. Be fooled at your peril!
      In the global index of perceived official corruption Spain slumped 10 places to rest at number 40 out of 177 countries with the PP occupying more corruption slots in Spain than its political rivals. I doubt that is an accident of numbers.
      The words of Bertolt Brecht sum it up, ‘Do not rejoice in his defeat, you men. For though the bastard is dead, the bitch that bore him is again in heat.’ And ever will be because money dictates all.

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