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Surprise cricket pitch planned for Orihuela Costa sparks massive debate
A 28,000m² plot in Playa Flamenca is being turned into what could become one of Europe’s largest cricket facilities
Artistic representation of the wroks in Playa Flamenca
A new sports project in Orihuela Costa has caught locals by surprise after machinery moved onto a large plot in Playa Flamenca, with confirmation that the site is set to become a cricket pitch.
The land, measuring more than 28,000m² and located between calles Arco Iris and Victoria, already has permission for a sports facility, but the scale and purpose of the development has sparked plenty of conversation among residents. The plans point to a full cricket ground, which its promoters believe could end up being the largest in Europe.
The appearance of earth-moving equipment on the site has fuelled speculation in recent weeks, with many locals unsure what was being built until details of the project began to emerge. Since then, discussion has grown across Orihuela Costa, with opinions split over whether it’s a welcome addition or something that feels out of place on the coastline.
Supporters of the development say it fits with the reality of the area, pointing out that Orihuela Costa is home to residents from more than 100 nationalities. They also note that cricket is hugely popular among British, Indian, Pakistani, South African and Australian communities, many of whom live locally.
According to those behind the project, the facility nicely reflects the international make-up of the population.
The chosen location is also in one of the most multicultural parts of the municipality, where demand for different types of sport is steadily growing. Proposals suggest the ground could host regional and national events, with the potential to bring in sports tourism and extra economic activity.
Not everyone is convinced though. Some residents have raised concerns that local priorities should instead focus on everyday infrastructure, maintenance and more widely used sports facilities.
Cricket itself already has a small but established presence in Spain, with the Spanish Cricket Association based in Moraira and clubs operating in places like L’Alfàs del Pi and La Manga Club in the Region of Murcia, which has hosted international training camps and tournaments.
As work begins on the Playa Flamenca site, debate continues over whether cricket will become a niche addition or a major new sporting attraction for Orihuela Costa.
