The controversy surrounding the Tabarca awnings, installed last summer and prematurely removed, continues. The firm that carried out the work has been waiting a year to receive the payment corresponding to the contract signed with the Alicante city council.

From Grupo Costa Blanca HTS, its manager laments the lack of communication from the City Council, stating that they no longer answer their calls. This situation, according to the firm, has been ongoing since January, and on April 16, one year passed since the contract was awarded. The company, with 22 employees, is in a situation of indebtedness due to these delays.

For its part, the City Council explains that the full amount due has not been paid because Intervention considers that 100% of a contract cannot be paid in advance. The council refers to the Sustainable Tourism Plan in Destination, which includes the payment for the awnings and is set to conclude in 2028 and 2026. Therefore, a budget adjustment has been necessary to pay in three installments, and payment will be made once the remaining funds are incorporated.

The Tabarca awnings were removed on July 25, one month after their installation, to comply with Heritage requirements, as the area is a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC). Despite this condition being known, the contract was tendered with the intention of keeping them until November. The City Council's Department of Integral Heritage had already warned in writing, before the award, that the awnings could only be present temporarily and during traditional public holidays.