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Out Of The Pool! Burkini Wearing Women Removed From Public Pools In Spanish City

Published

17 hours ago

July 17, 2026

out-of-the-pool!-burkini-wearing-women-removed-from-public-pools-in-spanish-city

Burkini-wearing woman in pool. Credit: Zurijeta – Shutterstock

Staff at a public pool in Burgos, Spain, have removed at least three women from council-run summer pools in El Plantio and San Amaro after they entered the water wearing burkinis. Staff at the facilities enforced local regulations that strictly restrict swimwear to standard bathing suits for hygiene reasons and asked the women to leave the bathing areas completely.

Local sports rules prohibit street clothes, footwear, or any garments not designed specifically for swimming in pool zones. Employees explained the policy to the women and invited them to exit. Two cases involved clothing clearly unsuitable for pools while the third featured a rashguard top often used by surfers or individuals seeking sun protection for skin conditions. Staff have so far applied the same standards across all incidents.

The councillor for sports plans to consult opposition members about possible rule revisions if public debate warrants deeper discussion. Current guidelines also ban wetsuits or lycra items unless users provide a medical certificate confirming necessity due to health conditions. Flippers and similar accessories face restrictions to maintain water quality, safety, and smooth operations.

Hygiene standards drive pool clothing policies

The facilities mean to limit organic matter entering the water such as skin cells, sweat, sunscreen residues, or fibres from unsuitable textiles. Larger or looser garments can introduce more contaminants and strain chlorine disinfection systems or filtration equipment. Management at the outdoor pool maintain that consistent application of these rules protects all users regardless of background.

Burkinis cover the full body except the face, hands, and feet. Many versions use synthetic swim fabrics similar to conventional suits including polyester or elastane blends. Despite this, some pool operators view the extra coverage as falling outside approved categories.

Physical challenges of full coverage swimwear in pools

Burkinis present several practical issues during pool use. Greater fabric surface creates more water resistance and hydrodynamic drag. Swimmers exert extra effort and move slower especially during laps or energetic activity. Competitive users often talk of changes in stroke technique as material catches water.

Extra layers absorb and hold more liquid than minimal designs. The garment feels heavier once soaked which complicates movement exiting the water or floating. Drying takes noticeably longer after sessions.

Fit and material quality affect comfort. Seams or wet fabric may cause chafing during prolonged activity while some styles limit shoulder or leg mobility. In heated indoor pools extra coverage can lead to greater warmth and reduced breathability. Loose sections occasionally influence body position or complicate rescue scenarios though fitted modern versions minimise such effects.

Pool maintenance teams sometimes express concerns about larger fabric volumes trapping or releasing more debris. This can impact chemical balance though high quality chlorine resistant burkinis meet the same technical standards as other approved swimwear. Individual comfort varies by design pool type and swimmer fitness. Casual users may find them suitable for relaxed sessions while serious swimmers prefer options with compression and minimal drag.

Debate over access and potential updates

Many of the reasons given in Spain for a ban on burkas and niqabs centres on security and facial identification. In the same way, the wearing of motorcycle helmets is often banned in certain locations such as public buildings, banks and schools. But, much of what is left out of political commentary is the Burka’s link to the subjugation of women. While strict laws across Europe against coercion already exist, religious-related cultural wear has been a thorn in the side of prosecutors, and difficult to enforce. It is believed that much of the argument surrounding the use of such wear has more to do with women’s rights and the cultural representation of women in western society than anything.

Incidents highlight Burka about balancing inclusion with operational requirements in public facilities. Some cities maintain strict interpretations while others explore accommodations for medical cultural or personal needs. The local councillor signalled willingness to review the policy through dialogue with opposition groups.

Residents and visitors should check specific pool guidelines before arrival. Approved swimwear typically includes fitted one or two piece suits made from appropriate synthetics. Medical exemptions exist for certain conditions but require documentation. Staff enforce rules uniformly to ensure water safety and enjoyment for everyone.

Similar situations occur in other locations where hygiene safety and facility standards shape clothing policies. Public pools prioritise clear consistent regulations to prevent contamination and support smooth daily operations. Users seeking alternatives can consider private venues or beaches with different expectations.

This episode underscores the importance of clear communication around facility rules. Women affected received explanations on site and authorities continue to monitor feedback for any future adjustments. Families and individuals planning pool visits benefit from reviewing municipal websites or contacting venues directly about current requirements.

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Out of the pool! Burkini wearing women removed from public pools in Spanish city

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Axarquia Wildfire Cause Emergency Response

Published

15 hours ago

July 17, 2026

Adam Woodward

axarquia-wildfire-cause-emergency-response

Competa on fire. Credit: Valeria Pérez WW

Emergency services have activated level 1 protocols after a forest fire broke out in Archez and rapidly spread to neighbouring areas in the Axarquia region of Malaga.

Officials from Plan Infoca were quick to respond to the blaze first reported at 12.44 in the Barranco de la Fuente area. Crews deployed multiple aircraft, including two light helicopters, one semi-heavy helicopter, two ground-loading planes and a coordination aircraft. Ground teams consisted of 17 personnel supported by a water tanker.

15/07/2026. 🕗 15.30 h.

🔴 ACTUALIZACIÓN #IFÁrchez, #Málaga | Trabajamos en su estabilización.

MEDIOS:
🚁 2 ligeros, 2 semipesados, 1 mando
🛩️ 4 carga en tierra, 1 coordinación
👩‍🚒 80 efectivos por tierra
🚒 2 autobombas
📡 1 equipo de mando
🩺 1 unidad médica pic.twitter.com/gosG06CKQD

— EMA INFOCA (@Plan_INFOCA) July 17, 2026

Fire jumps between villages calling for evacuations

Local authorities confirmed the flames moved quickly from Archez into Canillas de Albaida and Competa. One mayor described how the fire crossed a gully despite initial containment efforts, burning through avocado cultivation plots and forcing preventive evacuations of homes and an entire urbanisation.

🔴 Elevamos a fase de emergencia, situación operativa 1, el #PlanInfoca en la provincia de #Málaga por la evolución del #IFÁrchez

🔥 Como medida preventiva, se recomienda evitar la zona y seguir las indicaciones de los servicios de emergencia.

🏠 Quédate en casa. Cierra… pic.twitter.com/Bcs6CxxX6b

— Antonio Sanz Cabello (@antoniosanz) July 17, 2026

No personal injuries have been reported so far. Teams focused efforts on protecting residential zones and agricultural land. A road closure formed part of safety measures in the affected zone. Residents received instructions to stay indoors, keep doors and windows shut if smoke reached them, and pay extra attention to children, elderly people and vulnerable groups. People should avoid the area entirely and follow all directions from emergency teams.

Restaurant blaze causes tension in Velez-Malaga centre

Separate from the forest incident, a fire broke out early Friday morning inside Sushi One Asiatico restaurant in Velez-Malaga. Flames started around 10am on the ground floor of a five-storey residential building in Calle Aceitunos, close to Avenida de Las Naciones.

Fire in central Velez-Malaga.
Credit: CPB Malaga

Dense smoke led firefighters to evacuate around 20 residents from the block as a precaution. Fortunately the restaurant was closed to customers at the time, which helped complete the operation quickly without any reported injuries or smoke inhalation cases. Damage remained confined mostly to the interior of the establishment. Investigators pointed to a possible electrical fault or equipment issue rather than any link to the wider fires.

Multiple units from the Provincial Fire Consortium in Velez-Malaga, along with local police and medical services, attended the scene. Officers cordoned off access routes while crews tackled the blaze from several angles. A large plume of black smoke became visible across much of the town, drawing public attention. By approximately 11am, firefighters declared the fire under control and began ventilation and safety checks to prevent re-ignition in ceiling voids or ducts.

Safety advice still key for local communities

Both incidents go to show the heightened alert for the weekend and the high need for vigilance during such dry and hot conditions in southern Spain. Authorities continue to call for caution and full cooperation with emergency instructions in all affected parts of Malaga province. Updates will follow as containment progresses on the forest fire and investigations advance on the restaurant incident

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Mijas New 272-Space Los Santos Car Park

Published

16 hours ago

July 17, 2026

Lucy Ramnought

Drivers in Las Lagunas will breathe a sigh of relief as from September they will be able to use the new Los Santos underground car park, after Mijas Town Hall confirmed the long-awaited facility has been completed and is entering its final testing phase.

Final technical testing underway

Mayor Ana Mata visited the completed development on Thursday, July 16 with Infrastructure Councillor Juan Jose Torres to inspect the site before it opens to the public. Construction has now finished following an investment of €15.7 million. During the coming weeks, engineers will carry out final checks on the ventilation, air conditioning, lifts, access barriers and fire protection systems. The council is also finalising the electricity supply contract, a requirement before the official handover of the facility.

Increased capacity to 272 spaces

Revisions to the internal layout have increased the car park’s capacity from the 234 spaces originally planned to 272 without reducing the size of any parking bay. From the total, 200 spaces have already been allocated to local residents through a monthly subscription scheme costing €50, following a public draw held earlier this year. The remaining 72 spaces will operate as short-stay public parking, available through a standard ticketing system, easing the parking issues currently around the busy area.

Designed to improve parking in Las Lagunas

Located beneath Plaza La Cala, Plaza Mijas and Plaza Los Olivos, the four-storey underground facility is connected beneath Calle San Matias. Vehicle access has been created from Calle San Jorge, while the exit leads towards Plaza Mijas. Two pedestrian entrances equipped with lifts and staircases provide step-free access throughout the development.

Speaking during the visit, Mayor Ana Mata said the new infrastructure would improve mobility in an area that has experienced long-standing parking difficulties. Councillor Juan Jose Torres added that July and August will be dedicated to completing the remaining technical tests and correcting any outstanding defects before the scheduled opening in September.

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Cartagena Programme ZONNA Summer Supports 180 Children With Holiday Activities

Published

16 hours ago

July 17, 2026

Natascha Rivera

cartagena-programme-zonna-summer-supports-180-children-with-holiday-activities

Cartagena’s ZONNA Summer program provides healthy holiday activities for youngsters. Photo Credit: Cartagena City Hall

A total of 180 children and teenagers from across Cartagena have successfully wrapped up their participation in ZONNA Summer, a municipal programme designed to offer an educational, active, and healthy leisure alternative during the school holidays. The programme, which ran from June 23 to July 17, involved young residents from ages 6 to 18 in a diverse variety of activities, ranging from educational workshops, traditional games, sports, and cultural excursions.

Education, heritage, and summer wellbeing

The initiative was carried out by the Department of Social Policy, Equality, and Family of the Cartagena City Council, and is part of the work that ZONNA carries out throughout the year. Currently, this service helps around 400 children in different neighbourhoods and districts across the municipality.

A fun-filled summer programme for the young residents

The ZONNA Summer programme provides an alternative educational and social experience after the school year has officially ended, allowing the students to share their experiences, organise their free time, and continue developing their personal and social skills. This year’s edition of the workshops included leisure planning, education of values, and traditional games and activities. The young residents have also received advice on preventing the effects of high temperatures and using swimming pools, beaches, and other bathing areas responsibly.

During the summer, these activities are of special importance, when children’s free time increases, as well as their exposure to extreme heat.

Sports and culture: An unforgettable summer in Cartagena

One of the main highlights of the programme was the inclusion of sports activities and sightseeing in the beautiful areas of Cartagena. Through exercise and team games, the children had fun in an atmosphere of camaraderie, and the promotion of healthy habits, respect for rules, and collaboration.

The young explorers also participated in cultural outings around the municipality, learning about the fascinating history of the area and some of its most important heritage sites.

Inclusive support across nine distinct districts

Currently, ZONNA carries out its activities in nine areas of Cartagena: Los Dolores, Casco, San Anton, Barriada Virgen de la Caridad, Miranda, Santa Ana, Los Nietos, El Llano del Beal and Estrecho de San Gines.

The work of ZONNA is not limited only to the summer months, however. This programme offers educational leisure workshops and study support during the school year as well. It aims to foster personal, social, and academic development among young students in the municipality, and helps them in their social and academic development, all while creating safe spaces for interaction among children and teenagers.

All in all, the programme allowed nearly 200 children to enjoy several fun-filled weeks of learning, socialising, and community, making for an unforgettable summer in Cartagena.