Encamp Council Expects Parc de l’Ossa Fully Operational in 15 Days After Repairs

Encamp's local council expects near-normal operations at Parc de l’Ossa within 15 days, following repairs to defects raised by opposition councillor Marta Pujol during Thursday's council session.

Cònsol Major Laura Mas outlined the timeline at a press conference after the April 23 meeting at 5pm, confirming the contractor is addressing issues like water accumulation, faulty drainage pavements, and fountain surroundings—at no extra cost to the parish. The council will withhold the contractor's guarantee, previously reported at around €460,000 but retained since February at approximately €415,000, until final acceptance. Mas emphasized there is no rush, prioritizing full resolution.

Pujol, from Avancem, welcomed the updates, noting experts confirm the pond's algae poses no health risk. She expressed hope the work avoids becoming an endless project, unlike issues with Avinguda Joan Martí's paving.

The council is also funding improvements identified after public use, including €10,600 for wooden and granite paving on high-traffic paths between the bar and pipicà, and the skate park to Carrer de la Molina—replacing grass that muddied after rain. A €16,000 ultrasonic device will tackle the pond's algae, fed by nutrient-rich Valira del Nord river water, with results expected in two to three months. These works, delayed by winter weather, could wrap up as early as next week if progress holds.

Earlier complaints highlighted muddy zones, an unhealthy algae-covered pond, underground parking leaks, deteriorating vegetation, and insufficient benches for the elderly, prompting resident dissatisfaction with the €8.3 million project's functionality despite its awards in the MAPEI and Green Solutions Awards 2024-2025. The 15,000-square-metre park, a flagship from Mas's first term, began construction in March 2022, faced delays beyond the December 2023 elections, and opened in June 2024 after a €1.5 million overrun.

Pujol's query sought repair deadlines and any budget impacts beyond the original plans and modifications. Cònsol Menor Xavi Fernández rejected claims of neglect, while Mas described the changes as necessary adaptations learned from usage.