Águilas to develop tourism through sustainability plan

The plan is expected to cost 3.2 million euros

Águilas continues in its commitment to become a benchmark for sustainable tourism through a new EU backed plan. Financed by the European Union's Next Generation Funds, the project has a budget of 3.2 million euros for its development.

The plan is divided into the four main sectors of "green transition, energy efficiency, digitalisation and the strengthening of tourism competitiveness," said the mayor Mari Carmen Moreno.

Green transition focuses on key initiatives such as the Flood Prevention Plan, which seeks to improve the management of watersheds while encouraging blue sports tourism. 

Work is also being completed to build resilience to climate change through the implementation of the Shadow Plan, which improves the quality of the busiest tourist routes. Efforts are likewise being made to Renaturalise Avenida Juan Pablo II, with the aim of turning it into a tourist space that promotes environmental sustainability.

Energy efficiency is all about taking advantage of low-carbon economy solutions in local tourist areas. Among the most important steps taken so far has been the creation of bicycle lanes in the Calarreona area and the construction of a safe pedestrian crossing on the RM-D14 road.

Furthermore, the installation of solar canopies at bus stops in Águilas will produce energy to charge mobile devices as well as provide tourist information. Further solar panels will be installed at the Francisco Rabal Casa de la Cultura centre and the Infanta Doña Elena Auditorium.

Digitalisation will bring the launch of the "Digital Ecosystem" of Águilas, which includes the development of a web portal and a mobile application to provide tourist information. In addition, interactive devices will be installed at points around Águilas to enhance the experience of visitors. Further technologies such as audio guides will seek to provide information for tourists about the area. 

Tourism competitiveness is set to strengthen the local tourism economy and encourage job creation. The revitalisation of the tourism entrepreneurial ecosystem stands out as one such venture that helps create new innovative businesses.

Inclusive experiences are also being strengthened within Águilas. The supply of equipment for people with reduced mobility is central to the plans. Moreover, upgraded natural trails, marine trails and the creation of digital cycling routes will seek to improve active tourism. Accommodation for tourists is also under review with a plan for expansion being considered within the area. 

Finally, the creation of the Smart Office will help in the collection of data on tourists in order to adjust and improve the visitors' experiences within the plan for sustainable rejuvenation within Águilas. 

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Image: Ayuntamiento de Águilas