The Oñati City Council has presented the initial document for its General Urban Planning Plan (PGOU), which outlines the city's future planning. The document specifies where housing will be built, where industrial estates are foreseen, the nature of green areas, and the location for potential new sports facilities.
The initial document has been developed by the City Council and was presented to citizens at the Santa Ana Theatre. The event was attended by Mayor Izaro Elorza, urban planning committee head Iñigo Ruiz, and representatives from Sabai Arkitektoak and Araudi, the companies involved in the project.
During the sessions to establish the PGOU's foundations, incorporating citizen proposals, a decision was made to support a cohesive urban center, offering proximity and ease of access to services. Furthermore, new housing will be promoted on urbanizable land near the town center, avoiding the occupation of non-urbanizable land. The plan also includes environmental protection and designates land potentially important for the primary sector as being of special interest.
Focusing on sustainability, opportunities will be provided for combating the climate emergency and installing infrastructure for renewable energy generation. Additionally, from an equality perspective, the plan aims to build a municipality that facilitates caregiving.
The plan was presented divided into several sections. In housing, 751 new homes are projected, with 150 being subsidized housing and 186, regulated-price homes. In the economic activities section, the Council is exploring the possibility of creating a land reserve for industry. Regarding open and green spaces, the plan seeks to recover and enhance the river, significantly increasing areas for leisure and environmental protection. It also aims to protect the rural environment, considering land and activities related to the primary sector, as well as landscape and natural values.
Iñigo Ruiz Barron, head of the urban planning committee, stated that the goal was to develop a "long-term" plan, identifying future challenges and establishing a clear direction. Mayor Izaro Elorza emphasized that the PGOU is not "just any tool" but will define the town's future, highlighting the importance of conducting the process with full guarantees and in collaboration with citizens.
The initial approval document is publicly available, and specific PGOU details can be consulted on the municipal website. After receiving the opinion of the Advisory Council, the document will be submitted to a plenary session before the end of the year for initial approval. Subsequently, a three-month period for objections will be opened, allowing citizens ample time to review the document and submit their contributions.
