Protect our pathsTHE warped logic of many councils around Andalucia is stunning.

While tourists are the main source of income to the region their interests are often sadly ignored.

Take Ronda, a region known for its wildlife and nature.

It is estimated that up to 80 per cent of tourists who stay in the emblematic town go walking.

At the same time up to 30 public footpaths are currently blocked by landowners nearby.While it is the job of the town hall to keep them open, it is instead concentrating its efforts on opening golf courses and shopping centres.

It is also promoting a damaging toll motorway from the coast, which will open up the town to further property speculation.

Walking is a booming industry with increasing numbers of groups visiting the area.

It is a clean, pollution-free and sustainable business. And walkers bring good investment to the area, without damaging it.

It is one of the very few potential growth areas that should be encouraged by the Ronda town hall over the next few years.

That means spending money on promoting its walks, putting up new signs, and above all ensuring the paths stay open.

68-year-old agricultural worker Jose Moreno understands it. And is bravely prepared to fight for it.

If the town halls around the Serrania de Ronda aren’t prepared to join him, then to use the words of one local walking guide, it will be “a verguenza”, or shameless.

 

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