ENCE will remain at the Pontevedra estuary in Lourizán until 2073
ENCE continues its work at the lower reaches of the Pontevedra estuary in Lourizán, with a 60 year extension of the concession for a pulp mill on a land and sea public domain strip approved back in January 2016. The decision to extend the permit was reviewed by the Supreme Court after the matter came before it this morning and the outcome was confirmed.
The court clarified that concessions granted before the General Coastal Law of 1988 may be extended if positive environmental reports are filed. In this case, the administration delivered favorable assessments that supported the extension under review.
Judge Ángeles Huet has a special vote in the decision
During today’s session, the same court section also considered other appeals regarding offshore public domain concessions, this time in relation to housing. The administration’s decision to refuse the extension was sustained, backed by a negative environmental assessment. These housing units are located on the coast of Babilonia in Guardamar del Segura, Alicante. The exact scope of Judge Ángeles Huet s special vote will be clarified in the coming days.
Uncertainty disappears
The company voiced satisfaction with the Supreme Court ruling, which confirms its ongoing operation in Lourizán and provides a solid foundation for its plans. A company statement noted that the decision removes the ambiguity surrounding the facility s future and the 5,100 families connected to its operation. It also grants the certainty needed to advance upcoming plans at the bio-factory.
The firm added that the Lourizán facility will remain a showcase of efficiency, adherence to best available technologies, and sustainability. It stressed its commitment to generating sustainable value and employment in Galicia through continued operations. The 2021 financial statements showed improvements tied to the court decisions, forecasting a positive impact on profits for the following year, with anticipated gains around €169 million from the reversal of asset impairments and expense allowances documented previously.
Green peace
Greenpeace welcomed the court’s upholding of the 60-year extension granted in 2016, while noting concerns about the impact on the offshore land area of the Pontevedra estuary. The organization argues that extending the concession could keep the estuary’s public domain tied to activity that is not aligned with coastal protections and environmental goals.
Greenpeace contends that ENCE s presence in the estuary is not justified, according to statements attributed to the National Court and despite the Supreme Court s ruling. The group argues the operation hinders the recovery of the Lourizán marsh and its natural heritage, public interest, and the welfare of Galicia. It calls for a restoration of the estuary s ecological balance that has suffered over decades.
As the situation stands, Greenpeace plans to pursue legal advocacy and non-violent direct action to safeguard the Lourizán marshes and promote sustainable coastal stewardship.