The initiative, titled 'For the protection of the dehesa: no to the festival tent,' aims to gather support to avoid a repeat of the situation during the recent San Antonio de Padua festivities, when a tent with entertainment bars was set up in this protected area.
Despite a commitment from all municipal groups in April for the total protection of the Dehesa Boyal, residents warn that the City Council intends to install the youth tent again. This structure, open from midnight to 6 AM, has drawn complaints about noise affecting local wildlife, such as the Eagle Owl, and livestock, in addition to a significant fire risk.
Eva Agudo González, spokesperson for the group, regrets that the council is ignoring the complaints filed last year and opting for the Dehesa Boyal instead of the fairgrounds designated for such events, arguing the need to keep the festivals separate. Last year's installation, according to residents, caused noise disturbances, environmental impact, vandalism, and was fined by the Community of Madrid, highlighting the location's unsuitability.
The group also points to the impact on animal welfare by keeping livestock in the dehesa during the event, as well as the sense of insecurity due to its proximity to the road. They criticize the lack of transparency in the criteria used to justify the location, despite favorable reports from security forces.
The motion approved in the municipal plenary includes the development of a Special Protection and Management Plan for the Dehesa, which will regulate its uses and prevent dangerous activities. It also requests its inclusion in the Catalog of Public Utility Forests and its protection in the General Urban Planning Plan (PGOU) of Collado Villalba, along with an annual forest maintenance plan and fire prevention measures.




