Bars fined €2,000 for staying open too late

POLICE in Benidorm came down hard in the town’s old quarter last week by issuing fines against establishments for staying open too late.

Just as tourist businesses saw some light at the end of the tunnel, with the arrival of the summer season, after what many say was a disastrously quiet low season, in the first night of police presence, €2,000 in fines was issued.

The penalties if strictly applied can accumulate and increase for repeat offences to €30,000.
Some quarters expressed concern that the raids were made in the old town area, where many of the bars are aimed at gay clientele.

Under Valencian law bars must close at 1.30am and pubs at 3.30am.

Benidorm has always been an exception to this, rarely enforcing the legislation, and local businessmen are now petitioning the council for reassurances and explanations.