Marbella Activa Opposes Renovation of Former Governor’s House
The Marbella Activa association has expressed strong opposition to the renovation of the town’s former governor’s house. The group is urging the Marbella town hall to halt an exception to a rule that safeguards buildings in Marbella’s old town. This exception would permit the refurbishment of the former governor’s house.
Proposed Construction of 11 Apartments
Marbella town hall is considering allowing the construction of 11 apartments in the building that has been occupied by Sevillana for decades. This building is located within the enclosure of Marbella castle.
Historian’s Plea for Protection
Historian Paco Moreno, who sought the protection of the Andalusian Ombudsman in July, stated that the building permit for a single house has resulted in the removal of all protection for Marbella’s old town. He added that this decision was made urgently and was not published on the town hall’s website since its approval on March 5th.
Marbella Town Hall’s Response
In response to the Andalusian Ombudsman, the council admitted to the intervention for the strict conservation and maintenance of the building, specifically in El Castillo (Marbella castle). However, the governing board agreed to lift such limitation, which led to the request for the building permit. The town hall justified this action by stating that no deadline had been set for the drafting and approval of the special plan for the urban environment, referring to zone C-1, which corresponds to the town’s historic centre.
Historian’s Criticism of the Decision
Moreno criticized the decision, stating that it not only set back the protection of the castle by 38 years, but also lifted the limitation. This could potentially allow for the construction of additional floors in the surrounding buildings. He also questioned the justification of the limitation due to the lack of a special plan, especially when the same municipal government team has been in place for 17 years.
Construction of Luxury Homes
The project, proposed by construction company Grupo Loen, involves the construction of 11 luxury homes. According to Moreno, this would result in changes that exceed the acceptable threshold and violate the castle’s master plan, which outlines guidelines for a BIC asset of cultural interest.
Archeological Finds at the Governor’s House
Archeology company Arqueotectura conducted checks at the governor’s house and discovered various artifacts. Francisco Cervera, president of Marbella Activa, stated that they plan to personally obtain more information and halt the construction works.
Legal Action Threatened
Moreno added that they are prepared to take legal action, claiming that the project is illegal from the start.
