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The Spanish Interior Ministry has officially halted plans to build a new Guardia Civil barracks in Cartagena, sparking strong criticism from local officials and political parties. This confirmation came on October 3 in a written reply to questions posed by Popular Party senators, revealing the central government currently has no project or budget set aside for the new facility.

 

The former barracks were demolished in 2023 after falling into severe disrepair, leaving officers and their families temporarily housed in an old school building that has faced its own problems, including leaks and inadequate safety measures. Meanwhile, the original site remains an overgrown vacant lot, causing public health concerns and community frustration.

 

Mayor Noelia Arroyo called the government's decision “a further example of the Sánchez government’s disdain for Cartagena and our Guardia Civil,” stressing that officers are scattered in various temporary locations and lack sufficient resources and personnel. She questioned why funds previously announced for the project have vanished and criticised the government for failing to meet its constitutional obligations to the city.

 

While the PSOE insists the barracks remain a priority and vows to address administrative delays, no clear timeline has been set for construction to begin. In the meantime, the vacant barracks site draws complaints from residents due to neglect and local calls to transform it into green space.

 

The lack of a permanent, fully equipped Guardia Civil barracks continues to weigh heavily on Cartagena’s security and community confidence as residents await decisive action.

 

 

Image: Ayuntamiento de Cartagena