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New port area in Torrevieja is taking its final shape.
Over the past 2-3 years, residents and visitors to Torrevieja have witnessed extensive development of the port area in the city centre. Now the final push has begun and if plans go ahead, the new port area can be expected to be largely completed by the beginning of the summer of 2026.

This project is one of the city's largest renovation and planning projects in recent years and the goal is to better connect the harbor area to the city center, create a more attractive outdoor recreation area and strengthen services for both residents and tourists. It can be said that the project was very controversial at the time, not only because of the high cost but also because of the disruption and many operators believed that while the construction was underway it would not be possible to operate in general. You have brought up another issue and today there is a great deal of solidarity and pride that characterizes these major changes, as we were not camping for one night. . .

What does the project involve?
The development has been carried out in several phases and covers a large area from Acequión beach to Levante pier. Currently, the following are being carried out:
- Complete access to the port area and connection to a new walkway and service area
- Set up new lighting and benches
- Improve walking trails and open areas to the public
- Beautify the environment with vegetation and landscaping that better blends in with the coastline
- Coordinate and integrate previous projects with the final push, such as partial electrification of the port and improvements to the piers

All of this is being done to make the area more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, with an emphasis on an open and vibrant harbor and beach area where people can enjoy restaurants, shopping, events, and outdoor activities.

A new central area for the city.
One of the biggest changes is that the old area along Paseo de la Libertad has been redeveloped into a large multi-use outdoor area near the sea.
There will be space for outdoor markets, events and other entertainment, but car traffic will be limited to increase safety and quality of life in the area.
It is worth noting, however, that a parking garage has greatly increased the amount of parking in the area and has already opened.

What does this mean for people in the area?
For everyone who lives or stays in Torrevieja and the surrounding area, the new port area will have a positive impact on daily life. For example:
- More attractive hiking and outdoor recreation areas all year round
- Increased availability of services, restaurants and events
- A stronger and cleaner city center that attracts more visitors
- Increase in the value of nearby properties

The area has changed significantly in recent years and when the construction is complete, the harbor area will be one of the city's main attractions and gathering places, but we encourage everyone to hurry and take a look (and park in the new parking garage) and see how everything is coming together.

New rules on the return fee for single-use packaging in Spain.
Many Icelanders in Spain have wondered over the years why it is not possible to return disposable packaging for a fee in Spain. And while there is an endless fight for better treatment, garbage and trash collection, etc., many of us have been scratching our heads at this indifference.
Even now, things need to be done better - Spain is adopting a similar deposit system to the one we know so well from Iceland. But how will this actually work?

Spain is implementing a new deposit system for beverage packaging, similar to what we have had in Iceland for decades. The system will likely come into effect in late 2026.
A common return fee will probably be around 0.10 euros (15 kr.) per bottle or can, or comparable to that in Iceland.

Why is Spain doing this now?
Spain has lagged far behind the Nordic countries in recycling beverage packaging in general. Most notably, Spain has recycled around 40% to 50% of bottles and cans, while the European Union has set a target of 70% or more.
It is worth noting that Iceland has had a return system since 1989, and today around 90% of bottles and cans are returned in Iceland.

It can therefore be expected that with this change, many things will change for the better in Spain. Cans and bottles that have been lying around everywhere, on roads, footpaths, at gathering places, sports fields, etc. will probably be a thing of the past . . .

Viva Espana