There has long been the ambition of turning Playa de las Azucenas into a nature reserve; a virgin beach with just wild sugarcane and grass behind it.

The trouble has always been, though, finding the money, which is why the previous Mayor when she was in office applied for funds from the Fondo Europeo Marítimo Pesquero 2014/2020. For this reason, the project is a little closer to leaving the blueprint stage and taking shape on the beach itself.

The present Town Council has produced a technical service report that will be used to put the project work up for bidding with a budget of 92,000 euros. Once the work commences, it should take about three months to complete, so there is a good chance that we shall see it this  year.

The first step is an access walkway and an open-air reception area consisting of a wooden pergola or pavilion. Other walkways, information boards  and handrails will be provided, as well as park furniture (waste bin etc), all made out recycled plastic.

The idea for the nature reserve is based on the Charca de Suárez, which is a water fowl reserve on Playa Granada. The objective is to provide beaches for normal whilst protecting flora and fauna on the hinterland. One of the uses for the natural reserve will be that of a sort of open-air classroom for school visits.

There is no doubt that Playa de las Azucenas holds a special place in the hearts of local fishermen and anglers, as well as Motrileños in general and the idea of preserving at least just one beach with being subjected to urban development is unequivocally a good one, many will consider.

(News: Motril, Costa Tropical, Granada, Andalucia)