Ourense Casa de Baños de Outeiro demolition controversy

The Ourense City Council has commenced the demolition of the historic Casa de Baños de Outeiro, a site protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC). The local government has justified the demolition as an emergency measure to address safety concerns following a fire on May 15.

However, the action has faced significant opposition. The BNG political group and other critics argue the demolition violates the General Municipal Urban Development Plan (PXOM), which requires rehabilitation projects for cataloged buildings rather than destruction. Critics also claim the Municipal Technical Commission for the Protection of Cultural Assets was not consulted and that the works contradict the council’s own Rexurbe Area Revitalization Plan.

The controversy has escalated into a judicial matter after the association Apatrigal filed a complaint with the Prosecutor’s Office. The complaint seeks an investigation into whether the council disobeyed orders from the Dirección Xeral de Patrimonio to halt the works. Additionally, cultural organizations have accused the government of negligence, citing the abandonment of historical elements like stair components and bathtubs during the demolition process.