A report for Orihuela council that shows satisfaction levels at 80 percent for local beaches has been queried by the Federación de Asociaciones de Orihuela Costa (FAOC), who say that the overall figure masks concerns that were raised by people that were questioned.
Recently appointed beaches and coastal councillor Luisa Boné (pictured left), along with tourism councillor Sofía Álvarez, said that approval ratings by beach users had gone up six percent in 2016 compared to a year earlier. The most valued spots by residents and tourists were Punta Prima, Cala Mosca and Cala Estaca.
The councillors stressed that it was an independent company that compiled the survey and that the results would be used for the “Q” Quality awards that are handed to municipalities across Spain. FAOC claim that the figures, which produce an overall rating, take in many factors like sunshine, the temperature, as well as water and sand quality.
FAOC say that the survey makes it clear that in the sample of 1,500 people questioned, only 20 percent were totally happy with the state of the beaches, citing issues like algae, the short length of walkways, and access issues.
Boné said that the comments from the people surveyed would be taken on board, and that would include better access to Cala Mosca; more sand to be brought onto Punta Prima beach; and an increase in the number of foot baths.
“We will continue working to maintain the satisfaction levels, and produce even better figures next year,” Boné added.
