Torremolinos Mayor slams false news about emergency ward closing

Margarita del Cid, the mayor of Torremolinos has categorically denied rumours that circulated on social media regarding the closure of the emergency services at San Miguel Health Centre in El Calvario. She called the claims “completely untrue.”

Fake news spread by opposition groups sparked Saturday’s planned protest and petition. The mayor called it “pointless”, and said that the goal was to cause confusion and unrest.

Del Cid issued a public announcement on Thursday reassuring residents that San Miguel Health Centre will continue its normal operations. She emphasized that Torremolinos emergency services, whether at El Calvario or anywhere else, will continue to operate as normal. Instead, she announced plans to improve the town’s healthcare infrastructure, including a new pavilion at the Marítimo Hospital. The €2.4 million project, funded by the Andalusian Regional Government, will establish a state-of-the-art primary care emergency facility spanning over 765 square metres. The renovated area will have a reception, waiting room, emergency area, observation area and two treatment rooms. There are also eight consultations rooms and three staff bedrooms. The renovation will also include a pedestrian and ambulance access.

Del Cid has also disclosed ongoing discussions with Andalusian Health Department regarding a complete renovation of the San Miguel Health centre. “Our aim is not to just maintain emergency services but also to structurally improve this facility. That is what El Calvario residents deserve,” she said.

The mayor went on to describe recent municipal investments made in El Calvario, such as street renovations, revitalization of Plaza Vicente Aleixandre and restoration of Isabel Manoja, a social building. The Virgen de La Esperanza Centre is also acquiring land to create a major hub for social development in the neighbourhood.

In addition, Del Cid praised the Andalusian Regional Government’s €2.2 million investment in the Marítimo Hospital, which includes €1.2 million for mental health services and upgraded radio-diagnostic equipment for more accurate and efficient care. The La Carihuela health centre has also been expanded with a €1.4 million investment, increasing its consultation rooms to 40 and introducing new services such as ultrasound, women’s health care, and a radiology room. An additional €250,000 has been allocated for equipment at the facility.

Del Cid, in a statement to the public, urged calmness and rejected “policies that are designed to generate uncertainty and distress.” She repeated, “Nobody is closing emergency services at Torremolinos. Not in El Calvario or anywhere else.”

It was not the only instance of what appeared to be a coordinated smear. José María García Urbano, mayor of Estepona, has also recently been at the sharp end of accusations including corruption and inappropriate behaviour, all of which have been disproven.