I went along to the meeting in Torrecuevas, which had been convoked by the locals over the state of the rambla; i.e., the riverbed track that gives access to the cortijos above, all the way up to Gelibra.

IU leader and union representative, Fermín Tejero had been asked to come along to give advice on what would be the best way to go about getting a concrete-surfaced lane in the rambla.

His advice was, firstly, the locals had to get an architect/engineer to draw up plans, giving specifics such as dimensions and quantities. He warned that the project should involve the minimum necessary; i.e., not to go for a 2-lane affair the whole length of the ramble, as it would get rejected out of hand.

Once armed with the engineers report, they should approach the authorities that cover riverbeds first, rather than going to the Junta with a request for funds – another rejection assured. When the authorities approve the engineer’s report, then this would be the time to approach the Junta and say, we have permission; who’s going to finance it. That just about sums up his advice.