Mijas launches donkey park project

Mijas has plans to build a park for donkeys to help preserve and promote the species. The local council has launched a public tender for the design of ‘El Burrito de Mijas,’ with a budget of €44,202. The deadline for submitting proposals is December 26.

The park is located on the southern road, near the current donkey stabling. The park will have larger stabling, shaded paths, leisure areas and an interpretive centre that will educate visitors on the lifestyle and care of donkeys. Councillor Marco Cortés explained, “The project will allow donkeys to move in semi-freedom, giving them more space while allowing visitors to observe and interact safely.”

The key objectives are raising public awareness on animal welfare and establishing an observation station for donkeys who live semi-freely along the Camino de las Canteras. Visitors will enjoy shaded trails, and retired donkeys can live out their last years in the park. The park will also accommodate adult animals that need to be relocated or recovered.

The park, which covers 26,000 square metres, will feature three main modules for stabling, a veterinary facility, and a storage area. Each of 24 stabling compartments can accommodate two donkeys and is equipped with water, lighting and anchor points for cleaning and maintenance. The structures will be partly embedded into the slope of the land with vegetation roofs that integrate with the surroundings.

Ana Mata, Mayor of Mijas, commented that “this initiative will help preserve Mijas’ donkey population and raise awareness for their care and wellbeing.” The project is beneficial to both the animals and community.

‘El Burrito de Mijas’ is set to become a centre where animal care and public engagement come together, offering visitors the opportunity to learn about donkeys, enjoy the outdoors, and support conservation efforts.