Spanish regional politics: Retail aid cuts in Castelló and housing disputes in Valencia

In Castelló, Merche Galí of the PSPV-PSOE has criticized provincial president Marta Barrachina for reducing the 'Bons Consum' retail support program. While the program was promised at 5 million euros, the current allocation is only 2 million euros. Galí described the measure as 'amputated' and noted that the delay in implementation comes as the province faces a 6.7% loss in retail businesses since 2023.

In Valencia, local councillor Ferran Puchades of Compromís has denounced the municipal government for waiving its right to acquire a new building containing 114 protected housing units. The building was to be constructed on land previously swapped by the city in October 2024 as part of a 15-million-euro land exchange. Critics argue the decision to forgo the preferential acquisition right was made without economic valuation or formal justification.