Dénia City Council has convened the Interdepartmental Technical Commission (CTI) to assess progress in positioning the city as a Smart Tourism Destination (DTI). Under the leadership of Mayor Vicent Grimalt and representatives from various departments, the focus was on reviewing the DTI masterplan and the services provided by the Smart Office
Innovations for sustainable tourism: The CTI emphasised the importance of technological projects to improve community resources and the visitor experience.
A key topic was the development of a monitoring tool that analyses visitor flows, measures online reputation and evaluates economic impact - a milestone for Dénia's sustainability strategy.
Strategic priorities: In addition to reviewing the master plan, which includes measures in the areas of sustainability, accessibility and digitalisation, the roles and responsibilities of the CTI members were defined. Regular meetings are intended to ensure the continuous development of the Smart Tourism Destination.
With these measures, Dénia is pursuing a forward-looking tourism policy that benefits both residents and visitors.
Alicante City Council is suspending the issuing of new licences for holiday flats for two years in order to create better regulation. The plan is to set limits according to neighbourhoods, based on infrastructure capacity and the preservation of residential character. Illegal providers will be subject to stricter controls and sanctions.
The decision is based on studies, the results of which have not yet been published. Critics such as PSOE and Compromís accuse the ruling PP of delayed action and a lack of transparency, while Vox describes the moratorium as ineffective. The aim remains a sustainable balance between housing and tourism
When cost-cutting measures only apply to subordinates
While the civil service has to live with salary limits, the Generalitat under Carlos Mazón simply abolishes them for ministers and high-ranking civil servants - without consulting the trade unions. The highlight: the timing. On the day the new cabinet was inaugurated, the change was secretly inserted into the decree on forced mobility.
A rule that does not apply to everyone
The previous salary cap of 15% above the president's salary? Simply cancelled - but only for the „upper bodies“.
Beneficiaries such as retired Lieutenant General Francisco José Gan Pampols are now benefiting from a salary boost without actively serving. This is how upward redistribution works.
Non-transparency deluxe
No wonder trade unions are angry: They knew nothing about this regulation because it was secretly smuggled in. And the consulate remains silent when asked. Transparency? Not a chance.
Double standards on a silver platter
The message is clear: while civil servants are subject to austerity measures, the political elite are making up their own rules and regulations. The fact that this is happening in the middle of a period of economic uncertainty shows how little those responsible care about public trust. Mazón and co. make it clear: saving is good - as long as it affects others.
Calp City Council has launched a public consultation to gather residents' opinions on a new ordinance for construction work in public spaces. The aim is to optimise the management of such projects, increase safety and minimise the impact on the neighbourhood.
The planned ordinance provides for clear rules and penalties for companies carrying out construction work. One focus is on the coordination of different works, such as supply lines, in order to avoid multiple burdens from repeated excavations.
In addition, accessibility and information measures will be examined, including barrier-free routes during the construction period and more visible announcements for residents. Citizens can also submit suggestions for limiting the construction period and restoring the roads to their original condition.
The public consultation is underway and the city administration is hoping for numerous contributions in order to align the planned regulations with the needs of the residents.
Digital life is making its way into the small towns of the Marina Alta and Marina Baixa. With the Alicante Rural initiative, the provincial council is bringing free public Wi-Fi access to communities such as Benimeli, Orba and Sella. In addition to better connectivity, a new app called alicanterural.com aims to bundle private and public offers - from cultural events to services.
Free Wi-Fi is a milestone for small communities that previously struggled with poor internet coverage. With the help of EU funds and an investment of 625,000 euros, not only is the infrastructure being modernised, but the digitalisation of local businesses is also being promoted.
The planned app is intended to connect restaurants, small businesses and cultural events. Places such as Guadalest, Xaló and Jesús Pobre will benefit from features such as online bookings, loyalty programmes and a digital marketplace that strengthens local trade. The project focuses on environmentally friendly measures such as the distribution of 17,000 organic cotton bags and training for retailers who want to get ready for the online market. These steps should not only revitalise the economy, but also slow down the exodus from rural communities such as Relleu, Sanet y Negrals and Tàrbena.
Alicante Rural shows how digital innovations can improve life in small communities. Free WiFi and smart technologies are not only a step forward for everyday life, but also offer long-term prospects for commerce, culture and the community. red
(More information at: https://alicanterural.com/app)