La Manga businesses call for blue zone parking and tougher action in Plaza Bohemia
Traders and residents say summer chaos needs clearer parking rules, shuttle links and improved road safety
Business owners in La Manga are calling for regulated blue zone parking to be extended into the area as pressure builds every summer on available spaces, alongside renewed concerns over safety and traffic hotspots like Plaza Bohemia.
The proposals were raised during a coordination meeting between the Town Council and local business and residents’ groups, where parking, mobility and public safety were all discussed.
Unlicensed parking attendants, congestion during peak months and road safety across La Manga and Cabo de Palos were also on the table.
José Espinosa, president of the La Manga Business Association, said the meeting was productive and explained that businesses had once again highlighted problems seen last summer, particularly around Plaza Bohemia.
He said there were reports of people camping in parts of the area, which caused concern for local traders. According to him, the council confirmed that police presence will be stepped up this summer and that new rules will allow fines for intimidating behaviour, with the Guardia Civil also involved where needed.
The council said the summer security plan will include plainclothes officers, citizen security teams, the GOESC unit and drone support to help prevent harassment and keep things running more smoothly.
Parking was another major talking point, with business owners suggesting that some form of regulated paid parking could help improve turnover in busy areas. Mr Espinosa pointed to private car parks used by bars and restaurants as an example, saying they help ensure customers can actually find a space instead of vehicles sitting in the same spot all day.
Road safety between Cala del Pino and Isla del Ciervo also came up, with concerns about speeding and congestion at key junctions. The council said it is reviewing signage and visibility in the area and is also planning tests of new traffic light timings during peak summer periods.
Residents in Cabo de Palos raised their own concerns, including the need for a shuttle bus linking a park and ride site with the town centre, better pedestrian access near the new Mercadona, and improved safety measures on roads leading towards the lighthouse and Cala Flores.
Local police recorded 345 interventions in La Manga between June 1 and 14, covering everything from traffic and noise to public safety and general coexistence.
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