Bilbao City Council has imposed a third sanction on the Diocese due to the neglected state of the Abando plot. This new 600 euro fine is accompanied by a demand for the plot's restoration to its original condition, as well as its cleaning and maintenance.
The controversial operation, which involves the relocation of the Diocese's new headquarters and the construction of a Mutualia clinic on this plot, is currently stalled. The bankruptcy of the construction company responsible for the works in April 2024 and administrative hurdles, following the expiration of the municipal license last September, have contributed to this situation.
“"The intention is to resume the work as soon as possible, which is why the plot is in this state."
The fine, according to the notification sent to the Biscayan Church, is imposed for non-compliance with a December resolution. In that resolution, the local administration gave the owner of the plot, which spans over 2,000 square meters, one month to rectify deficiencies. The document demanded, among other things, the restoration of the urbanization to its previous state and the repair of a railing that posed a “risk to public thoroughfare.” It also requested the replacement of the perimeter fence with one made of “brick, block, or similar” with a height between two and three meters.
The latest notification, dated April 28, confirms the non-compliance with these requirements, marking the “third” sanction for these reasons (the first was processed in December and the second in March). Furthermore, it demands the submission of certification and settlement for the completed part of the work, and the periodic clearing and cleaning of vegetation to maintain the plot in proper condition. Failure to comply within 15 days will result in a fourth fine of the same amount.
The condition of the plot, located between Heros, Barraincua, and Lersundi streets, has drawn criticism for months from local residents. Organized under the Abando Habitable platform, they oppose the Diocese's plan for this parcel. Just a month ago, residents reported a proliferation of “insects and rats” due to the poor state of the land, where water, weeds, and construction debris accumulate.
