The owners of the renowned El Fogón market situated along the N-332 in Guardamar del Segura have asserted that the local council lacks the legal authority to shut down their activities pending a court decision on precautionary measures they have requested. This declaration follows the council’s attempts to close the market on two occasions in recent weeks, which the owners argue are unwarranted given a lack of legal judgement. They state that the market will continue to open every Sunday while awaiting a ruling.

Carmen Valenti Marí and her son, Fernando García Valenti, who have run the market for over thirty years, express confusion about the urgency demonstrated by Mayor José Luis Sáez, especially since the inquiry into the market’s regulatory status began in two thousand and twelve. They firmly claim that no irregularities exist regarding their operations, which are legally compliant as the site is classified for urban use. Both the restaurant and warehouses on-site possess valid licenses.

The Valenti family has also voiced concerns that the mayor may be under pressure from a property developer planning two thousand three hundred and sixty-five new homes adjacent to the market site. They seek clarity on the developers’ intentions and insist that the future of the market be considered in any development proposal due to its longstanding economic importance to the community.

Furthermore, they propose a temporary activity licence as a legal solution while awaiting urbanisation works. As one of the province’s most popular markets, El Fogón attracts visitors from afar, featuring a wide selection of goods including fruits, vegetables, and second-hand collectibles, thus providing vital economic support to local hospitality businesses every Sunday.