The parking lot at Laga beach in Ibarrangelu will remain open throughout the summer season, accommodating approximately 250,000 users and aiming to alleviate the congestion and traffic issues experienced during sunny weekends. The Basque Country Coastal Demarcation, under the Ministry for Ecological Transition, and the Basque Government's Ports and Coastline Department have verbally agreed to postpone dune regeneration works until after the bathing season.
The parking facility had been closed since November due to a project to regenerate the dune area, located within the public maritime-terrestrial domain protected by the Coastal Law. Following the agreement, Costas will delay the work execution, while the Ibarrangelu City Council will manage the parking to prevent traffic collapses and ensure vehicles do not occupy the area beyond the Laga river bridge.
“"We have suffered very complicated moments that no one can imagine, going so far as to have cars occupying the cycle path"
Tension was high last weekend among bathers circling for parking spots under temperatures exceeding 34 degrees Celsius, necessitating the presence of the Ertzaintza (Basque Police) and the Guardia Civil. Physical altercations were reported, and dozens of vehicles even forced their way into the closed parking lot by damaging the access barrier.
Furthermore, the citizens' platform 'Laga bakean laga' (Leave Laga in peace) has expressed concerns about the environmental impact of the dune expansion project, which involves moving large amounts of sand and heavy machinery. They highlight potential consequences for the ecosystem, fauna, and marine life, as well as a lack of transparency and public participation. The group also criticizes the absence of real parking alternatives and a clear beach management plan.
