Zalla, recognized as a Child-Friendly City by UNICEF and the Ministry of Social Rights, is facing local criticism. The distinction, initially agreed upon in 2021 by the then-council led by EAJ/PNV for a four-year term, appears not to be translating into concrete actions for the future of the Artebizkarra neighborhood.
The neighborhood platform Artebizkarra Batera has publicly voiced its concern regarding urban planning projects that, they allege, threaten to destroy the "green heart" of the neighborhood. They argue that the General Urban Planning Plan (PGOU) and the planned projects for recreational areas represent a significant loss of quality of life, not only for the children who play and enjoy the space but also for the relaxation of adults.
Residents recall that UNICEF awarded Zalla for protecting children's rights and believe institutional coherence demands prioritizing environmental health and the elimination of architectural barriers. "We do not want concrete to replace the "green heart" of the neighborhood," they state, calling for a "real, unhurried, and above all transparent" dialogue with the town hall.
They emphasize that Artebizkarra is not against progress but in favor of human development that does not sacrifice the well-being of future generations, urging to "save our neighborhood's environment" and maintain Zalla's standing as a child-friendly city.
