Over 100 motorhomes and tents evicted from ‘occupied’ natural reserve in Nerja

by Else BeekmanElse Beekman
Nerja motorhomes and tents evicted

The Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park, one of the last remaining untouched natural areas along the Malaga coast, has been repeatedly ‘occupied’ by caravans and campers. These illegal settlements have caused significant environmental damage, leaving behind vast amounts of litter and waste in the protected area.

The park, renowned for its scenic hiking routes and diverse ecosystems, has been thrust into the spotlight due to the sudden accumulation of pollution and environmental degradation. The widespread presence of rubbish, waste, and abandoned items has raised serious concerns about health and safety, prompting urgent action from local authorities.

Illegal settlements and environmental damage

The surge in caravans, campers, and illegal occupancy of abandoned buildings has led to both ecological damage and public order issues in the park. The Junta de Andalucía has confirmed that these activities are to blame for the degradation of the park’s facilities and surrounding areas.

Last Monday, the Local Police of Nerja, the Guardia Civil, and Seprona’s Environmental Agents, launched a joined intervention to tackle the crisis. With over 20 officers mobilised, including 14 patrol cars and a crane, authorities moved swiftly to address the growing threat to the park’s integrity.

Hundreds of vehicles and tents removed

During the operation, authorities uncovered over 100 motorhomes and 30 tents illegally occupying the natural park. The police officers could promptly evict the owners, as the scale of the issue became clear. Furthermore, they had to arrest two persons who resisted to leave and herewith disobeyed the authorities. 

A recurring problem

Despite previous interventions, the problem persists, with this being far from the first instance of illegal settlements in the area. Last year, a similar situation occurred at Las Alberquillas beach in Nerja. There, the police had to forcibly remove several motorhomes.

Increased surveillance to protect the park

The Maro-Cerro Gordo Nature Reserve is a unique area renowned for its dramatic cliffs, reaching up to 75 metres high, interspersed with scenic beaches and coves. Formed by erosion and sea retreat on the Sierra de Almijara’s foothills, the park boasts rich biodiversity both on land and in its waters. The combination of steep cliffs, hidden beaches, and marine life offers unique habitats for fish, corals, sea anemones, as well as birds, reptiles, and mammals that thrive in the surrounding vegetation.

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