British expats fume at 'horrible' plans to transform 'peaceful' Spanish town with play area and mini golf

British expats fume at 'horrible' plans to transform 'peaceful' Spanish town with play area and mini golf

Expats shares issues with their pensions

Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 05/01/2024

- 10:17

Updated: 05/01/2024

- 10:19

British expats are divided over new plans to transform a Spanish hotspot

A beautiful part of Spain could soon change amid plans for extensive renovations.

The work suggests revamping the Estepona Port to include more space for walking, a kids play area and minigolf.


However, not everyone is happy with the plans as expats have hit back and the proposed work.

Details of the work were announced by developers Marinas del Mediterráneo D-Marin on its Facebook page.

Marinas del Mediterr\u00e1neo D-Marin plan

The developers shared their plans

Marinas del Mediterráneo D-Marin

It said: "We are excited about the comprehensive renovation project we have prepared for the Estepona Port.

"Some works that include both aquatic and land areas, covering a surface area of more than 57,000 m2."

Expats and residents shared their concerns about the proposals online.

One said: "'No' to the crazy/mini golf or playground! I thought it was going to be smart.

"This isn't Benidorm! The children have lots of other options."

Another agreed: "A once in a lifetime opportunity to create a magnificent 'blue & green' nautical quarter with quality restaurants, bars & retail.

"It should be all about quality not quantity with peaceful, shaded, fountain areas.

"Playgrounds and crazy golf must be catered for on the paseo not the marina."

One more added: "That cheap coloured plastic castle looks terrible. Imagine how it would look after one to two years. Horrible."

Some expats welcomed the plans, and one wrote: "I think we need to remember that we are in Spain, where all the family is catered for. Why would you not want a park area for children to play in?

"At the moment children visiting the port have nowhere to play other than near the office so a well-equipped area would be great.

Estepona Spain

The plans will revamp Estepona port

GETTY

"If people want fine dining and child free zones, there's plenty of places in the old town."

A second said: "How good! A children's zone! Something was needed for the little ones in the port."

The company said: "Thanks for all the feedback received, we are committed to being a positive part of the Costa del Sol region and creating value for our partners, regions, and local communities.

"We have submitted a project to the Junta de Andalucia for the complete refurbishment of the Estepona Marina, which will commence if the current concession of the marina is extended. Working in partnership with the community, all enhancements planned to Marina Estepona will complement the town and provide value to locals and visitors through enhanced marina experiences, improvements to pedestrian areas and green spaces, investment in the local economy and a strong commitment to sustainability.

"Our marinas are committed to being good neighbours and integrating well to preserve the environment, as well as celebrating the local culture and traditions and collaborating with the community."

This comes as the best place to live in Spain was shared as a "wonderful city" with "more on offer for expats".

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