Community groups and environmentalists in Orihuela Costa are raising concerns over a proposed change to the development plan for sector Y-one. The change aims to increase the number of homes on plot U-eight from thirteen detached houses to thirty-three townhouses. Local groups, including Amigos de Sierra Escalona and various neighbourhood associations, argue that the area is within a flood risk zone outlined by the Patricova report, as it is adjacent to the river Nacimiento.

These groups are urging the local government to reclassify the land as non-urbanisable to prevent construction and to integrate it into the regional green infrastructure. They stress that the risks of flooding will only increase due to climate change, highlighting past flooding incidents that have affected the site. The local authorities previously claimed the land is outside of flood risk zones, based on a report by the Segura Hydrographic Confederation.

Despite assurances from the urban planning department, locals are worried about the ongoing risk and environmental impact of the proposed housing development. They emphasize the necessity of preserving the area, which is already heavily urbanised, arguing that construction should not continue on the few remaining undeveloped coastal lands.

Furthermore, recent developments, including heavy machinery clearing the area, have heightened community concerns. If the plan goes through, it could pave the way for further urbanisation along the Alicante coastline, contradicting calls for sustainable land use and environmental protection.