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Date Published: 15/10/2021
ARCHIVED - One of the biggest tourist attractions in Alicante remains inaccessible to many
The lift at the city's iconic castle on the Costa Blanca is still out of action due to Covid and the shuttle buses are not running either
One of Alicante's top tourist attractions remains inaccessible for thousands of locals and tourists alike, in particular those with reduced mobility.
For 18 months now, the lift at the impressive Castle of Santa Bárbara has been out of use due to the pandemic and a shuttle bus which transported hundreds of sightseers on an average busy weekend have not yet been reinstated, which means anyone without their own transport must climb approximately two kilometres to enjoy the incredible panoramic views from the top.
One of the hardest-hit sectors throughout the health crisis has undoubtedly been the tourism industry, and there are concerns that this "jewel in Alicante's crown", declared a municipal heritage site and an Asset of Cultural Interest, which is visited by tens of thousands of tourists every year, is currently inaccessible to the majority.
This week saw the arrival of 3,300 German and American holidaymakers, onboard two cruise liners which docked in Alicante on Monday. And, according to newspaper reports, "as soon as they landed, hundreds wanted to visit the castle", but were unable to due to the lift being out of order.
An 'occupational risk prevention' report is still pending before the lift can be reopened, and with 35 cruise ships expected to arrive in the city over the next three months, and a further 62 next year, it's hoped the lift and shuttle bus will be reinstated sooner rather than later.
"The municipal government has degraded the castle to the point of it being almost inaccessible. We have no lift, no shuttles, and the car park and the pedestrian wall are in a deplorable state," said opposition Compromís councillor, Rafa Mas.
He pointed out that not all visitors can access the castle on foot. "It's a real gymkhana," he added, "especially in the summer months, and especially for the elderly or people with reduced mobility".
Image: Archive
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