Residents of Jardines de Sabinillas have expressed concern about the works under way in the area known as BosquiPark. They do not understand what its purpose will be: whether a soup kitchen, as had been said from the outset, which could change the character of the neighbourhood, or a hospitality school….
The residents’ association of Jardines de Sabinillas has voiced its discontent in recent days, particularly over rumours that a soup kitchen is soon to open just metres from their homes. The statement, circulated through WhatsApp groups, sets out the concerns of residents in the area and has prompted a meeting with municipal officials, scheduled for Thursday at 18:00. It was initially planned for the council chamber of Manilva Town Hall, although this has yet to be confirmed, as most residents would prefer the meeting to be held somewhere close to these premises.
Residents’ concerns
Although residents acknowledge the importance of this type of assistance service, they say they are worried about the possible consequences for their daily lives. The fears expressed include an increase in the number of people on the public highway, changes to the usual dynamic of the neighbourhood and a greater sense of insecurity, even though there are no specific incidents to support these perceptions.
Other residents also point to a lack of information about the specific purpose of the works being carried out, how the possible service would operate and the measures planned to ensure harmonious coexistence, which heightens their distrust at not knowing «what is being cooked up» beneath their homes.
Call for dialogue
The statement stresses that the discontent is not directed at the social work itself, but at the lack of knowledge and the prejudices that arise when changes occur in the immediate surroundings. For that reason, residents are calling for:
More fluid communication with the authorities and with the organisation responsible for the soup kitchen, if that turns out to be its purpose.
The introduction of clear protocols to ensure the activity is integrated into the neighbourhood without a negative impact.
Collection of signatures
The residents have begun collecting signatures at the offices of the residents’ association’s administrator, Nivassa Gestión, with the aim of formally conveying their concerns and possible proposals to municipal representatives at the next meeting.
Next steps
Thursday’s meeting will be key to clearing up doubts and establishing a channel of dialogue between residents, the Town Hall and those responsible for the project that is due to be launched. The residents stress that public participation is essential to face this change with confidence and to prevent fears from turning into rejection of the project that is due to be put into operation.
