Driven to distraction

THE municipal car pound in Calpe is currently full and the Local Police union have said that the system is close to collapse. Abandoned or badly parked vehicles are towed to the pound for collection (after payment of a fine) by their owners. If they aren’t claimed, then the cars are supposed to be auctioned off to help fund the system and to clear space for new arrivals. However, these auctions have not been going ahead, leading to the lack of space. An order has recently been issued preventing the towing away of cars until the problems are sorted out. However, this has led to anger from some residents with abandoned cars blocking streets and pavements. Lack of staffing and a complex vehicle collection system have all further contributed to the current mess, say the police unions.