Andorra Culture Ministry Appeals Court Ruling Annulling Casa de la Vall Protection Decree

The Andorran Culture Ministry has appealed a first-instance ruling by the Batllia that annulled a decree establishing protected surroundings for the Casa de la Vall, Andorra's historic government headquarters, on grounds of improper notification to affected property owners.

Culture Minister Mònica Bonell, speaking during Sant Jordi celebrations on 23 April, defended the government's decision to challenge the Batllia decision before the Superior Court. She stressed that the executive followed proper procedures and that affected parties received all necessary information, allowing them to submit allegations in due time. "We think the guarantees for those affected were in place," Bonell said, adding that the ministry had sought addresses from Andorra la Vella commune, only for its data protection delegate to refuse and offer to handle communications instead.

The appeal seeks to overturn the lower court's procedural finding, demonstrate the claimants' full awareness and participation in line with case law on the right to defence, and prompt the Superior Court to rule on the decree's merits regarding cultural protection for the Casa de la Vall and a second monument. Government officials aim for a definitive resolution that upholds the measures amid property owner challenges.

Bonell outlined contingency plans, stating the government would reissue notifications differently if the higher court upholds the notification flaw. Such a step, she noted, would not impact work already completed or planned timelines, including a UNESCO World Heritage candidacy unaffected by the dispute. The ministry continues related heritage efforts, such as restorations at Sant Martí de la Cortinada and Sant Cerni de Nagol, with an Icomos expert visit slated after summer.