By Molly Grace

Copyright euroweeklynews

The Diputación de Alicante has announced an investment of €325,000 to enhance and conserve trails and natural areas across the province, with a particular focus on several municipalities in the Vega Baja. The initiative forms part of the Diputación’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability, boosting tourism, and ensuring safety in natural spaces.

In the Vega Baja, the municipalities set to benefit are Algorfa, Benijófar, Callosa de Segura, Granja de Rocamora, Los Montesinos, Orihuela and Redován. The funding will be distributed through two main strands of action:

Trail homologation and maintenance: €225,000 has been allocated to improve existing routes, provide clear signage, and ensure the safety of walkers, cyclists, and other users. The programme also covers the homologation of trails in other provincial municipalities, such as Famorca, Fageca, Quatretondeta and Penàguila, and includes maintenance work across approximately thirty localities. By improving access and safety, the initiative aims to encourage active tourism while supporting the local economy in rural areas, which often rely on visitors for business opportunities.
Conservation of natural spaces: A further €100,000 will be dedicated to conservation projects in protected areas in municipalities such as Alcoi, Ibi, Sax, Monforte del Cid, Novelda, Petrer, Pinoso, Redován and Xixona. These projects include cleaning, habitat restoration and measures to protect local biodiversity. By maintaining the natural environment in good condition, the scheme ensures that these spaces can be enjoyed responsibly by residents and visitors alike while safeguarding delicate ecosystems.

In addition, the Diputación has earmarked €50,000 for the purchase of branch shredders in 20 municipalities with fewer than 1,000 inhabitants. This equipment will improve the management of agricultural and forestry waste, reduce the risk of wildfires, and contribute to the overall sustainability of the region.

Local officials emphasise that these measures not only preserve the environment but also improve the quality of life for residents and foster community awareness of environmental responsibility. Improved trails and well-maintained natural areas provide safe, attractive spaces for outdoor activity, while conservation efforts help maintain the ecological balance that underpins local tourism and agriculture. With these initiatives, the Vega Baja is taking significant steps towards a more sustainable future, where environmental protection and local development are closely linked. Residents and visitors alike can look forward to better-preserved, more accessible natural spaces that combine safety, beauty, and ecological responsibility.