Spanish Supreme Court reinforces right to know administrative intentions

The Supreme Court has reinforced the right of citizens to know the intended actions and orientations of the Administration, distinguishing this from the standard right to transparency regarding existing records.

A recent ruling by the Third Chamber, concerning urban planning consultations under Madrid ordinances, established key criteria for administrative procedures. The court criticized the lack of fixed deadlines for resolving such inquiries, noting that allowing indefinite waiting periods violates essential principles of Administrative Law.

The ruling emphasizes that administrative procedures must adhere to principles of efficacy and celerity. Without established time limits, citizens are unable to verify if procedures are being conducted without unnecessary delays and are prevented from exercising their legal right to appeal when necessary.