Campervan conflict

Betty Henderson

A HOSPITALITY Association in Almeria is calling on regional authorities to control illegal motorhome and campervan sites, saying they pose a ‘security threat’ as campers are not subject to the same regulations as those staying in accommodation such as hotels.

The Provincial Association of Hospitality Entrepreneurs of Almeria (ASHAL), sent a letter to the mayor of Almeria, asking her to act in response to illegal campervan settlements on Monday, February 13. ASHAL said the illegal encampments “have invaded dozens of areas in the community and continue to grow.”

In the past, authorities have argued that campervan travellers are subject to the same security controls as people staying in other types of accommodation, saying they are re­ quired to submit the same documentation during their stay.

ASHAL said that in reality, people staying on illegal campervan sites are breaking rules including ecological regulations on waste, damaging the environment with sewerage, and disrupting the peace for local residents. ASHAL also says that these sites are damaging the camping sector’s economy.

ASHAL is asking the regional government to step in by providing police powers to disband illegal encampments.