News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain

environment

Controversy Erupts in Valdeprado del RĂ­o Over Forest Management Contract

In the picturesque town of Valdeprado del RĂ­o, located in the heart of Cantabria, a heated debate has emerged over the management of the local forest resources. The Plataforma en Defensa del Sur de Cantabria (Platform in Defense of Southern Cantabria), a local advocacy group, has accused the mayor of Valdeprado del RĂ­o of mismanaging the town's forest patrimony.

Accusations of Mismanagement

The controversy centers around a recently approved contract for the forest exploitation of the Monte, a significant forest area in the region. The Plataforma en Defensa del Sur de Cantabria alleges that the mayor has acted improperly by promoting this contract, which they claim will lead to the exploitation of the forest for hunting purposes without adequate consideration for environmental and community impacts.

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housing

Government of the Canary Islands Hands Over Keys to 26 New Homes in Agaete

In a significant move to address housing needs in the Canary Islands, the regional government has officially handed over the keys to 26 new homes in the municipality of Agaete, located on the island of Gran Canaria. This initiative is part of a broader effort to provide affordable and quality housing to local residents.

Ceremony and Attendees

The key handover ceremony took place on a recent date, with several high-profile attendees from the regional government and local authorities. The event was marked by the presence of key figures, including the President of the Canary Islands, Ángel Víctor Torres, and other government officials responsible for housing and urban development.

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transportation

Growing Concerns Over Safety on the AP-7 Highway in Spain

In recent months, the AP-7 highway in Spain has been at the center of a mounting crisis, with a significant increase in accidents and traffic congestion prompting widespread concern among drivers, authorities, and local communities.

Rising Accident Numbers

As of early 2025, the AP-7 has witnessed a alarming surge in accidents. In just over two months, 99 accidents involving victims have been recorded, including three fatal incidents. This trend is part of a larger pattern; in 2024, the highway saw a record 700 accidents, the highest figure in the last decade. The majority of these accidents were minor, but they still resulted in substantial traffic jams, with drivers losing approximately 3,700 hours to congestion in 2019 alone[1].

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culture

Historic Vidriera Library in Santander to be Transformed into a Study Room

In a significant development for the cultural and educational landscape of Santander, the historic Vidriera Library, a beloved landmark in the city, is set to undergo a transformative renovation. This iconic building, known for its rich history and architectural significance, will be converted into a modern study room designed to accommodate up to 94 people.

The Vidriera Library's Rich History

The Vidriera Library, located in the heart of Santander, has been a cornerstone of the city's intellectual and cultural life for decades. Its name, "Vidriera," which translates to "glasshouse" or "greenhouse," reflects the building's original design and purpose. The library has served as a hub for learning, hosting countless readers, researchers, and students over the years.

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culture

International Women's Day: 8M Marches Across Spain Advocate for Gender Equality and Rights

On March 8, 2023, Spain witnessed a wave of vibrant and determined marches as thousands of people took to the streets to celebrate International Women's Day, known locally as "DĂ­a Internacional de la Mujer" or simply "8M." The annual event, which has become a cornerstone of feminist activism in Spain, saw participants from all walks of life rallying for gender equality, women's rights, and an end to gender-based violence.

Nationwide Participation

Cities across Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville, were filled with the sounds of chants, music, and speeches as women, men, and non-binary individuals joined forces to demand equal rights and opportunities. The marches were organized by various feminist groups, trade unions, and social organizations, highlighting the broad support for the cause.

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government

Municipal Council of Vega de Pas Faces Ten Months of Continuous Sessions

In the picturesque valley of Valles Pasiegos, the municipal council of Vega de Pas has been embroiled in a period of unprecedented continuity, with plenary sessions stretching over ten months without a break. This prolonged period of council meetings has been marked by intense discussions, contentious issues, and a significant impact on the local community.

Background and Context

Vega de Pas, a small municipality in the Cantabrian region of Spain, is known for its natural beauty and tight-knit community. However, the recent municipal council activities have highlighted deep-seated issues and divisions within the local government. The continuous plenary sessions, which began in May 2023, have been a subject of both local and regional interest.

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