Encamp Residents Demand Extension of Service Galleries in Avinguda Joan Martí Roadworks

A group of residents and property owners in Encamp has renewed its campaign demanding that ongoing roadworks on Avinguda Joan Martí include extending the service galleries, which currently cover only half the route.

The galleries, built seven years ago from Arinsol to Genil, stop short of Prada de Moles. Neighbours argue the extension would house utilities, ease access for maintenance, and avoid digging up the roadway. They first raised the issue formally in 2024, when the avenue's remodelling tender made no provision for it. In a letter signed by 31 people, they pressed the local council (comú) to act.

Cònsol Laura Mas replied by letter, stating that studies were underway to assess the gallery's feasibility, with results to be shared later. Residents say they later spoke to her directly, only to be told funding was unavailable. They then sought a meeting with Works and Entities councillor Benjamí Rascagnères, who received them but offered no updates—though they claim power utility FEDA had agreed to cover electrical works.

Frustration boiled over when works began without further consultation. Residents learned of the January 9, 2026, start date through media reports. The comú held an information session on January 12, outlining phases and the final design, but phase one launched on January 19 with no prior debate involving those most affected.

Spokesman Àngel Torres accused the council of "abuse of authority," adding: "Nobody has spoken to the neighbours to ask our opinion." The group views the remodelling—prompted by years of neglect—as a chance to finally complete the infrastructure. The comú has not commented further since the works began.