Es Born pedestrian row: PP calls for Ciutadella talks

Ciutadella, Menorca’s dispute over the pedestrian scheme at Es Born is heading back to the council chamber. On Monday, 7 September, the local PP submitted a motion calling for talks between traders, the governing team and opposition parties. It wants them to agree a way forward for the square.

The party says the council should stop fuelling confrontation and seek a plan that takes different views into account. PP spokeswoman Juana Mari Pons said the governing coalition had pushed through the pedestrianisation without first resolving issues over traffic, parking, trade, planning and its administrative basis.

Pons also criticised the council’s treatment of people and businesses that went to court. She said a recent incident at a shop linked to those affected should prompt efforts to lower tensions.

PP demands answers on costs

The motion calls on Mayor Maria Jesús Bagur and councillor Llorenç Ferrer to account for their roles in the pedestrian scheme. It also seeks a report setting out the cost to the town hall.

The report would cover the installation of the scheme, signs, street furniture, any removal or reversal work, legal services, lost income and all other direct or indirect costs. Pons said people in Ciutadella deserved to know how much public money had been spent.

Terrace rules also in the firing line

PP also wants changes to the bylaw governing the use of public streets. Its proposal aims to reduce or avoid any compensation claims against the town hall.

It says terraces should still be allowed on the promenade and carriageway where safety and accessibility rules are met. The party says it backs a future for Es Born that gives greater priority to pedestrians, public activity and urban quality, but argues the current scheme was handled without enough planning or agreement.

Topics: Politics

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com