Torremolinos refugee centre closed

The Torremolinos Council cancelled plans to turn the old Miratorre Old People’s Home on Avenida de Sorolla in a reception center for 120 refugees. They cited a lack necessary permits.

The group, currently housed in a hotel near Benahavís, was set to relocate under an agreement between the property owner, Alberto Benito García of Student Rental, and Asociación Engloba, tasked by the central government with supporting refugees fleeing persecution or conflict.

When Engloba employees arrived, the police intervened and informed them that there was no primary occupancy licence or other required authorisations. The council deemed it ‘irresponsible’ to allow occupation, citing uninspected fire safety and water systems. Benito submitted, on April 15, two declarations stating responsibility for occupation and activity, in spite of warnings issued the previous week. He claimed legal authorisation according to Andalusian Law. In just a few minutes, the council rejected both declarations, citing invalid paperwork, including a 2013 unverified works certificate, and an expired licence.

The repurposed residence was first attempted in July 2024. However, previous attempts had been halted due to unauthorised renovations. A local Facebook group, ‘Citizens’ Platform Against the Illegal Immigrant CentreThe locals were not aware of the plan and they raised opposition. Benito who originally pitched the site as a place for athletes insists that the goal is still to house people and accuses the council of being biased against foreigners. The council does not deny xenophobia, but it says safety is its top priority. Engloba’s Pedro Carricondo regrets the setback. Noting that the facility is ready, he urges a rapid alternative solution.