The Town Hall of Elche has announced a comprehensive plan to remove aerial cables, initially focusing on the historic centre and later extending throughout the city. The initiative, approved by the municipal government, aims to enhance urban aesthetics, preserve heritage, and modernise telecommunications infrastructure. Mayor Pablo Ruz highlighted the necessity of order and systematic planning in the management of cables. He stated that the council will be strict in addressing the visible chaos caused by improper cable placements.

This strategic plan is set to unfold in three phases over ten months. It involves the removal of seventy-four aerial cable installations, which will be replaced with underground conduits. The estimated cost for this project is one hundred thirty-seven thousand euros, with the Town Hall covering the civil works expenses. Telecommunications operators will be responsible for relocating their infrastructure within the new underground frameworks.

The first phase will include pilot tests conducted in streets densely populated with aerial cables to evaluate methodologies and adjust processes for the underground installation. Coordination with various telecommunications companies is planned for the actual removal of cables. Concurrently, the council is drafting an ordinance aimed at eliminating aerial wiring across Elche, preventing future installations that might detract from the city’s urban appearance.

In his statements, Mayor Ruz indicated that over half of the current aerial cables are inactive. He referenced previous efforts to remove aerial wiring in areas surrounding Santa María and Plaza de Baix. With a budget allocation of forty-eight thousand three hundred seventy-five euros for the first phase, this plan signals a commitment to improving urban aesthetics and accessibility, building on prior work to integrate underground facilities. Elche continues to lead in adopting innovative urban solutions that enhance the heritage value of its historic centre.