Residents from the small towns surrounding Lekeitio, including Amoroto, Aulesti, Ispaster, Ea, Mendexa, and Gizaburuaga, have expressed deep dissatisfaction with the verdict from the High Court of Justice of the Basque Country (TSJPV). This ruling, which addresses the controversial parking system implemented by the Lekeitio Town Council in recent summers, will compel them to alter their shopping and leisure habits.
The judges determined that the Town Council's differential treatment in regulating parking was unjustified. Previously, residents from six nearby municipalities—Aulesti, Gizaburuaga, Amoroto, Mendexa, Ispaster, and Ea—were allowed to park in the town center, while those from other areas, regardless of whether they owned second homes in Lekeitio, were prohibited from leaving their cars within the urban core.
From now on, specifically from June 10 to September 13, only registered residents will be able to park continuously for 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in the green zones throughout the town. These zones offer approximately 1,920 spaces for nearly 3,300 vehicles. All other visitors will be directed to use peripheral park-and-ride facilities. Seasonal passes will be available, ranging from 30, 90, and 120 euros, though these do not guarantee a free space.
For us, it's a real hassle. Going to Lekeitio for shopping, to the hairdresser, or to the bank is part of our daily routine, whether it's summer or winter. It creates a big problem for us.
Similar criticisms are voiced by citizens in Mendexa and Amoroto, towns practically adjacent to the coastal enclave. Only the government led by Ander Aldazabal has commented, stating that “for us, it is a great loss.” In their view, “the town needs life all year round, not just during holidays, and therefore, citizens who come to Lekeitio to meet their needs are absolutely essential.” They emphasize that “it is not fair that during holidays, just because Lekeitio fills up with people, they have to go to another town.”
The same sources also acknowledge that in other similar localities, residents from surrounding areas have the option to park in resident-only zones. “For this reason, we are convinced that if justice has rejected this point, it has been as a consequence of the appeals and aggressions that have been registered.”
