A company has applied to build a major eco-resort on more than 170,000 square metres of protected rural land in the buffer zone of the Natural Park of La Mata and Torrevieja lagoons. Inner Wellness Eco Resort has submitted documents to the Generalitat for environmental assessment, citing the existence of the century-old Casa Sala farmhouse on the site.

In March, the developer also requested a certificate of urban compatibility from Torrevieja City Council, which has issued a favourable but conditional report. Any final approval must comply with the park’s Plan for Use and Management and the Natural Resources Management Plan, which restrict most new tourist construction on protected land.

The proposal includes the restoration and extension of the existing farmhouse, installation of lightweight removable cabins over 13,000 square metres, a 6,900 square metre wellness area with spa and natural pools, parking, permaculture gardens and more than 45,000 square metres set aside for biodiversity. A 13,000 square metre agrivoltaic solar plant and vineyard restoration are also planned.

Part of the plot lies on the boundary between Torrevieja and Guardamar, meaning additional coordination with Guardamar council may be required. The northern section is also affected by maritime-terrestrial public domain regulations linked to the lagoon.