Ups and Downs of the Town Hall

Benidorm's new town hall is a prime example of the topsy-turvy world we live in. It's had as many brickbats as bouquets and its cost has spiralled to more than double that originally envisaged by its designers.

Originally budgeted at €10.9 million, the latest certificate of cost signed by the architect is for €20.9 million, almost double, and this doesn't include the amounts paid in interest to the bank and the cost of furnishing the building which will up the total to €26 million.

Always controversial, the building has had awards heaped upon it for its design, innovation and functionality, and has been criticised almost as much for its deficiencies - remember when the Mayor's office roof fell down minutes after he'd left? Still, we're sure it'll all be worthwhile when it's finished.

27 January 2005 Stephen White.