By Molly Grace
Copyright euroweeklynews
Merchants at Torrevieja’s emblematic La Plasa market have been granted financial relief while the long-awaited refurbishment project takes place. The City Council has confirmed it will subsidise up to 80% of rental, electricity, and water bills for stallholders during the works, which are expected to last 14 months.
The decision follows months of uncertainty among traders, many of whom feared they would not survive the closure period without support. The council has announced that the subsidies will be included in the 2026 municipal budget and applied retroactively from the start of the works, ensuring that no business is left out of pocket. La Plasa, located in the heart of Torrevieja, has long been a hub of local commerce and culture. Its refurbishment project aims to modernise facilities, improve safety standards, and revitalise the building’s role as a central marketplace. For years, both residents and stallholders have called for improvements, but concerns about the impact on traders’ livelihoods delayed progress.
Mayor Eduardo Dolón confirmed that the financial package represents a commitment to protecting small businesses during the transition. “We are aware that these works create disruption,” he said, “but we also know that La Plasa is a key part of Torrevieja’s commercial identity. This subsidy ensures that merchants can return once the works are complete, without being forced to shut down permanently.”
Stallholders have welcomed the announcement but remain cautious. Some traders highlight that even with subsidies, the loss of foot traffic during the closure could affect customer loyalty and income. Others, however, see the decision as a lifeline that will allow them to weather the disruption. The refurbishment is expected to deliver not only a facelift but also greater accessibility, improved infrastructure, and modernised spaces that could attract new businesses and visitors. Local officials believe the project will strengthen the city’s economic fabric, supporting both traditional commerce and tourism. Residents have expressed mixed feelings. While many support the investment in revitalising the city centre, others worry about whether the project will remain on schedule and if the promised subsidies will be delivered swiftly. Still, the financial backing offers reassurance that La Plasa’s traders, some of whom have operated there for decades, will be able to return to their stalls and continue serving the community.
The works are scheduled to begin in the coming weeks, marking a new chapter for one of Torrevieja’s most historic and symbolic spaces.
