Orihuela City Council has defended the removal of vegetation from the central reservation on Avenida del Cabo in Cabo Roig, after the works sparked anger among local residents. The departments of Infrastructure and Coast say the action forms part of a comprehensive upgrade of the main coastal road, based on technical criteria related to road safety, accessibility and the renewal of ageing infrastructure.

A municipal technical report cites visibility problems at junctions and pedestrian crossings, interference with street lighting, and damage to pavements and underground pipes caused by root growth. It also notes that some of the removed plants included oleander, a toxic species requiring special handling. The central reservation, measuring around 1.20 metres wide, was deemed unsuitable for medium or tall shrubs.

The council has said the project includes a later redesign using low-maintenance solutions and vegetation adapted to the space, prioritising safety, functionality and sustainability.

However, neighbourhood associations have expressed “deep indignation”, arguing there is no evidence of accidents or structural damage caused by the plants. They claim the report ignores the environmental and social value of the green areas and accuse the council of replacing established vegetation with concrete and gravel to reduce maintenance costs. Residents are calling for the works to be halted and for a dialogue process to begin.