Residents in Fuengirola upset over camper van pollution

Residents of Fuengirola, a seaside town on Spain's Costa del Sol, are upset about camper vans using public parking spaces for long stays. Locals complain that these vehicles are exceeding the 48-hour limit and causing pollution. Fuengirola is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches. However, it lacks designated areas for motorhomes, forcing visitors to park in public lots. Local officials say they do not plan to create specific caravan sites due to space restrictions and the need for utilities like electricity and drainage. Local police regularly patrol the area and can issue fines ranging from €300 to €750 for parking violations. Meanwhile, a member of the far-right VOX party has criticized the local government for inadequate action. He claims that many motorhome owners are treating parking areas as permanent residences, which creates "waste and filth" for local residents. José Luis Quintero, president of the Association of Andalusian Caravanners, acknowledges the issue. He noted that it is not only a problem in Fuengirola but is affecting coastal areas throughout Spain. In Lanzarote, there is a different but related issue. A housing shortage is forcing people to live in their vehicles due to the rise in holiday rental flats. The average sale price for housing in Lanzarote has increased by 40% over the past four years, making it hard for workers and small business owners to afford rent or mortgages.