Andorra la Vella Starts Plaza Leak Repairs, Targets Q1 Completion

Sergi González, cònsol major of Andorra la Vella, has confirmed the parish council began repair work this week to address water leaks in Plaça del Poble, targeting fixes for most issues by the end of the first quarter.

The initiative followed a meeting with the project management team, the construction firm, and owners of the Vinyes underground car park. Participants pinpointed exact leak locations and planned corrective actions, González told ANA. He expects technical reviews, builder repairs, and quality inspections by an independent firm hired by the council to resolve the bulk of the problems. The refurbishment has not yet been formally accepted.

González pointed out that while some leaks emerged from the recent upgrades, many existed beforehand and date back years. He emphasized the council's cooperative stance, enabling technicians to diagnose issues and the builder to implement solutions.

The plaza's success at this year's Poblet de Nadal Christmas market underscores its value, he added. The event featured six additional stalls, more open space, and strong approval from vendors, residents, and visitors. González highlighted the transformation from a basic asphalt walkway lacking play areas or trees to a vibrant public space with heavy footfall.

Responding to opposition leader David Astrié's repeated hints at a full teardown to repair pavement waterproofing, González rejected the idea as "completely false." Work will be limited to isolated spots, such as individual planters, he said, criticizing the remarks as unnecessary alarmism despite clear updates provided in parish commissions.

The leaks have also prompted Vinyes Patrimonial, the car park's owner and operator, to file a damages lawsuit against the council in the Batllia last November. The opposition has raised concerns over what it sees as poor waterproofing execution, underscoring the issue's severity with the legal action.