Over a hundred municipalities in the Valencian regions show a low execution rate for the Open Investment Plan, the Valencia Provincial Council's program to boost local investment. According to a digital tool from the institution, out of 266 municipalities and associations with submitted projects, more than a hundred have only awarded 33% of the funds.
Globally, 1,363 actions have been submitted and approved for a total of €209 million. However, only €105 million have been awarded, leaving €104 million pending. In total, €244 million of the available budget has not yet translated into works or execution.
Natàlia Enguix, first vice-president and head of the area, encourages the most lagging municipalities to expedite project submissions and work awards. The Provincial Council is streamlining approvals, with around 30 decrees published, and offers technical and administrative advice to ensure all budget allocated for improvements in parks, gardens, water cycle, sports facilities, and other actions is invested.
Unlike previous plans, the Open Plan is a four-year program (approved in January 2024) with a budget of €350 million, €60 million more than the previous term. Municipalities have until December 31, 2027, to execute works and until March 2028 to justify them, with the possibility of an extension.
Management has been varied, influenced by the dana (storm). Municipalities like Cofrentes and Albuixech have already awarded 100% of their funds. Others, such as Paiporta (with €2.3 million assigned) or Catarroja (with €2.4 million), show low award rates, possibly due to subsequent difficulties. In contrast, Carlet demonstrates good progress with €1.75 million awarded.
Among the larger cities, Ontinyent stands out with €2.8 million available and only €317,000 pending award. Conversely, Mislata, led by Carlos Fernández Bielsa, has €2.7 million but has only awarded €437,000.
About twenty municipalities exceed 80% of awards, including Cofrentes, Albuixech, Petrés, Montserrat, Jalance, Barxeta, Benagéber, Ontinyent, Tavernes de la Valldigna, Benigànim, Carlet, Benetússer, Higueruelas, Navarrés, Senyera, Palomar, La Pobla del Duc, the association La Comuna, Meliana, Montitxelvo, and Llocnou de Sant Jeroni. However, around 70 municipalities are significantly lagging, with awards below 20%.
