Mollusc changes coastal plans
Rare sea snail found during environmental probe
PLANS for a picturesque cove in Calpe are being delayed to allow marine experts to investigate the presence of a rare mollusc living in the bay.
The vermatids – a species of sea snail, also known as a sea worm because of the shape of its shell – have been found in Cala La Manzanera during an environmental investigation needed ahead of work.
Described as a ‘unique’ mollusc, scientists must now report on the extent of the colony before the restoration of La Manzanera social club can proceed; plans include a new breakwater and coastal path.
In Alicante, the shoreline species has made its home in Calpe, Cova Tallada in Jávea, and surrounding the island of Tabarca.
And because the colony could be affected by the work – the social club was designed by celebrated postmodern architect Ricardo Bofill and has been out of use for over 40 years – the Institute of coastal ecology has been called in.
The town hall said that as the area was part of the Natura 2000 network, necessary reports discovered the colony – and now the plans might need to be redrawn to protect the marine life.
A six-month extension to the start of the project has
already been granted, now the ministry of the environment must also give a green light because of the potential harm to wildlife.
Calpe councillor Juan Manuel del Pino remains optimistic.
He said: “We are trying to marry cultural interest and the environmental interest.
“We remain convinced that if a new extension were necessary, the regional government would grant it to us.”
Taken together the various projects for Cala La Manzanera will cost over €1.2 million but can proceed separately.
The councillor added: “The work at the social club can advance independently; it is a priority because as time passes the more it deteriorates.
“The important thing is to protect such an emblematic piece of architecture and at the same time protect environmental interests of the area.”