Alhama de Murcia moves forward with plans for a new residential care home

The tender process is due to start for a second centre that could provide about 100 new places in the area

The local council in Alhama de Murcia is starting the tender process for a new residential care home for seniors. A project that the local leaders say is both necessary and long overdue, as demand for places continues to rise. 

Mayor Rosa Sánchez said the plan responds to a need that has been evident for years. The council has repeatedly asked regional authorities to expand capacity at the existing Residencia Virgen del Rosario, by providing land and holding meetings, but no increase has materialised. Faced with that delay, the council has decided to move ahead with its own proposal while continuing to press for improvements at the current facility.

The new residence is planned for a municipal plot on Calle Perú, opposite the Servicio de Empleo y Formación. The first step will be a feasibility study to define the centre’s size, technical requirements and the costs, along with how many places could be publicly funded. The project will then go before councillors for approval before tender documents are drawn up.

Councillor Antonio García explained that residential care provision is normally managed by the regional government, but said the council has focused on what it can realistically deliver within its remit. He noted that demand is already high and expected to increase, making practical solutions essential.

Demographic data backs that view, Councillor Toni Sibina said the municipality is home to nearly 4,000 residents aged over 65. Early estimates suggest the new facility could offer around 100 places, with some reserved locally and others potentially arranged through the Instituto Murciano de Acción Social.

If the administrative stages progress as expected, officials hope to complete the main procedures during 2026 so the contract can be awarded in 2027. Local leaders say they want older residents who need a place to be able to stay in their own town, close to family, friends, and familiar surroundings.

Read also: Alhama de Murcia offers free parking to shoppers until the end of February

Image: Alhama de Murcia Town Hall