Clubs and bars take extra Covid action
Health measures enforced at night
NIGHTCLUBS and bars accused of flouting coronavirus safety regulations in Jávea have taken action to curb the excesses of revellers.
Police stepped up patrols over the weekend along the Arenal - the town’s main tourist area - to enforce regional safety laws, including wearing masks and maintaining social distancing. And club and bar owners backed mayor Jose Chulvi’s appeal to protect the community and avoid a potential spike in Covid-19 contagions.
New outbreaks of coronavirus in the region have been blamed on crowds at nightspots and large family gatherings where people become more ‘relaxed’ about safety. A muchpublicised spike in Gandia triggered clubs and late bars being closed.
The mayor and his councillors for health and citizen security held a crisis meeting after scenes of people crammed onto the dance floor of a wellknown Jávea nightspot went viral on social media the previous weekend - and attracted the attention of the Spanish television.
Costa Blanca News was told the Arenal strip was much calmer last weekend with people observing rules to remain at their tables in clubs and on outside terraces. Police have issued fines against people and businesses in breach of the health laws.
But a residents’ association is already taking legal action because of crowds gathering at the entrances to clubs in the small hours and large and illegal street parties. They allege the authorities failed to take action to enforce regulations.
At crisis talks with business associations and hospitality business owners, Mr Chulvi underlined that it was ‘vital’ they play their part in preventing the spread of the virus.
He said the scenes watched by the nation on television ‘must not be repeated’ and demanded ‘cooperation’ in fighting the health crisis.
“We are aware of the importance of your sector in the economy of the municipality and how badly you have suffered over the last few months,” said the mayor.
“We do not want what happened in Gandía to happen here and therefore it is essential to be involved and comply (with the regulations) without excuses.”