Once the exercise restrictions were eased in the first lockdown, many of us took to the local canal paths that run through Orihuela Costa. These pathways are actually service road that run alongside the Cartegena Tajo-Segura canal and remain immensely popular with residents who use it for walking or cycling, while quietly enjoying the nice scenery.
However, AVOCA Orihuela Costa Neighbourhood Association in Action has been receiving various complaints regarding the increasing amount of vehicles using this service road – including buses and trucks – despite that fat there are clear signs that prohibit the service road to motor vehicles. These vehicles make the paths dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists alike.
AVOCA recently met with a technician from the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura, which is the body that owns and is responsible for the waterway and its service roads. The Association was keen to try and find a solution to this problem.
The technician was keen to point out the main purpose of this road which is intended for the exclusive use of the workers who maintain the canal. Other motorised vehicles should be duly justified and expressly authorised by the Confederation.
Following the meeting it was decided that the Confederation will continue to allow pedestrians and cyclists to use this service road, but they will limit the use of this road to authorised vehicles only. To enforce this decision the gates, which are currently left permanently open, will be closed at all times. To allow people access the Confederation will open a small passageway at the side of the large gates to allow people and cyclists to pass. This will make it much safer for people to walk, cycle and exercise along the canal.
The technician also informed the Association that cleaning and maintenance works will be carried out along the canal as soon as the contract is awarded