Typical scene on the Levante front

The end of the current craze for Madge-mobiles is in sight for visitors to Benidorm - at least for those that only hire them for fun, as is the unfortunate scenario in many cases. The Town Hall are currently looking at way to legislate their use but one hotel group - HOSBEC, have decided to act ahead of any announcements. Following an avalanche of complaints to the Town Hall they are looking at bringing in a by-law which will include fines for improper use and restrictions on those that can hire them.

Hotel lobbies have increasingly become car parks for mobility scooters, obstructing hotels clients from passing safely and comfortably. Daily reports of accidents to hotel property, such as broken windows and damage to hotel furniture are costing the hotel substantial amounts of money as many do not have public liability insurance - it is not a legal requirement like car insurance is. The Hotel Association have asked the Council to include this requirement to any new draft legislations for those wanting to hire mobility scooters in Benidorm.

Flamingo Oasis hotel lobby - a ridiculous situation

The HOSBEC group of hotels have decided that they will be restricting those that can bring them into their hotels solely to those with genuine mobility problems - however it is not clear who will actually be regulating his. I certainly think it is a good idea - this phenomenon has definitely got out of hand over the last few years. There are nearly 500 mobility scooters available within the resort for hire and at only 10 euros per day to hire or 50 euros for an entire week it is very tempting and certainly cheaper than a car or taxi!

They really look like genuine users!!!

It is a shame that those people with genuine mobility issues are embarrassed to use them now thanks to the irresponsible who hire them for fun as a toy - heaven forbid that they ever find themselves in the situation when they really need one. Many are hired out by "joyriders" - I have seen fit and healthy people riding on them then jumping off to go inside a bar or run down to the beach. They are certainly popular with Stag & Hen groups some of who see them as a compulsory part of their weekend. Families are clearly using them for fun with mum, dad and children all wizzing around and causing mayhem on the narrow pavements. Pedestrians often have to walk onto the road to get by as they are blocking the pavements, parked up whilst the "users" are inside a bar or cafe having breakfast.

I appreciate it will be difficult to monitor but Benidorm is becoming the laughing stock of Europe - something which the Council have now acknowledged and thankfully doing something about.