Overview
- Local police and the Almonte council declared sections of the Matalascañas promenade in a state of “extreme emergency,” banning pedestrians and vehicles due to structural risk.
- Storm Francis damaged the 4.3‑kilometer seafront at numerous points, destroyed three permanent beachfront bars, and prompted the evacuation of about 15 residents near threatened foundations.
- Hugo Morán proposed shifting the promenade inland and removing first‑line buildings to regain beach width, with the coastal authority assuming the works if a cooperation agreement is signed.
- The ministry says it is financing a €6 million temporary sand and breakwater reinforcement and reports more than €21 million in projects under way in Almonte.
- Mayor Francisco Bella calls for immediate state intervention, resists the relocation plan, and cites municipal estimates of roughly €600 million and about 200 seafront buildings affected by a full retrenchment.