Scores of British homeowners are considering selling up after their once-idyllic neighbourhood became filled with squatters, it has been claimed.
Concerned residents of Alhaurin Golf, in Alhaurin el Grande, told the Spanish Eye that they fear their property values have dropped by around €100,000 due to the ongoing security concerns.
Their battle comprises an occupied bank-owned house in the heart of the urbanisation (Calle Miguel Angel Jimenez), and a string of nearby unfinished homes, where at least 10 squatter families are reportedly living.
One resident, who asked not to be named for fear of reprisals, told this newspaper: ‘The great majority of residents affected are British. I am British myself, although I live here permanently all year round.
‘Many of my neighbours, however, are either retired or use their properties as second homes.
‘Unfortunately, a significant number are now considering selling this year due to fear and insecurity.
‘Even though property values in the area have dropped considerably due to this situation, many feel it is no longer about the financial loss – they simply do not feel safe or protected.’
In the squatted home on Calle Miguel Angel Jimenez, the resident said the occupants ‘appear to be living at a very high standard – luxury vehicles, continuous renovations, expensive furniture – all within a high-end property.’
He continued: ‘There is frequent movement of cars at all hours, and residents strongly suspect ongoing illicit activity.
‘Despite repeated calls to the police whenever suspicious behaviour occurs, the response is limited. We have been informed that only the legal owner – in this case, the bank – can initiate formal eviction proceedings.’
He added: ‘At the entrance of the urbanisation, there are other squatters living in extremely precarious conditions inside abandoned buildings.
‘They light fires inside the structures and keep dogs roaming freely across the golf course, which creates serious safety concerns.
‘In another abandoned complex, not visible from the road, a family with a child is living in very unsafe circumstances.
‘So we are facing two extremes: on one side, people living in highly dangerous and precarious conditions, at risk of fire and serious harm; on the other, individuals occupying luxury homes while residents indirectly bear the cost through communal expenses such as water and electricity.
‘It is a very serious and complex situation, affecting safety, property values, and the well-being of residents.’
The Spanish Eye has contacted Alhuarin el Grande town hall for comment.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
