Encamp Council Rejects Parc de l'Ossa Acceptance Over Execution Flaws

The Encamp parish council has refused final acceptance of Parc de l'Ossa, a flagship 15,000-square-metre public space, due to execution flaws that have left several areas substandard.

Despite widespread acclaim for its design—which blends urban renewal, biodiversity enhancement, and spaces for diverse community needs—the project has fallen short in practice, particularly outdoors. The council is withholding €415,000 from contractor Progec, equivalent to 5% of the €8.3 million total cost, as a performance guarantee while deficiencies are addressed.

Minor Cònsol Xavier Fernàndez praised the concept, noting it has earned prestigious awards including a MAPEI prize and a Green Solutions Award for 2024-2025. Indoor facilities and enclosed areas have met expectations fully. However, outdoor elements have prompted complaints from users about unkempt appearances, degraded natural zones, and poor maintenance.

Key issues include leaks in the underground parking, ill-defined external spaces, and landscaping that fails to match the original plans. Some paved walkways combining grass, wood, and granite become excessively muddy during rain or post-snow melt, despite serving as main thoroughfares. The council has approved a €10,000 fix via a new quote request.

The natural pond, intended as a fully organic feature, shows green discoloration from nutrient-fueled algae growth rather than neglect. A biologist oversees it, and a specialized machine emitting targeted waves will control the algae after a full seasonal cycle reveals its behaviour. Select plantings also require replanting, delayed until better weather.

Fernández stressed that joint inspections with Progec and project supervisors produced a detailed list of fixes. "Things that should be finished aren't, and others that are finished don't work as per the plans," he said, citing the parking leaks as unacceptable in a near-new facility. Daily workers address ongoing tasks, and the council anticipates completion by May, yielding a "splendid" park.

If Progec fails to deliver, the parish will use the retained funds to hire others. Fernández dismissed neglect claims, attributing issues to faulty execution or natural adjustments rather than council oversight lapses. The site, replacing the historic Prat Gran, remains open amid remedies.