Consumers and Network Users Association notes the tragic nightclub incident in Murcia’s Las Atalayas district, highlighting ongoing failings within the sector. It is considered incomprehensible that a venue could suffer such a blaze. The reeled event, registered between 2008 and 2022, demonstrates how quickly interior materials and fittings can ignite if fireproofing and early warning measures are lacking. The exact cause of the fire remains undetermined, but the safety gaps are clear and troubling.
Criticism centers on the absence of robust, sector-specific regulations. In the Region of Murcia, the Twelfth Additional Provision of Law 4/2009, dated May 14, on Integrated Environmental Protection covers public performances and entertainment events that occur regularly, permanently, or seasonally, including nightclubs. This provision also extends to amusement parks, theme parks, water parks, karaoke bars, pubs, and other specialty venues. Consumur stresses that urgent action is needed to implement these rules regionally and to mirror regulations found in other autonomous communities.
The association cites Madrid as a benchmark, where Law No. 17/1997, enacted on July 4, governs Public Entertainment and Recreational Activities. It includes a dedicated consumer protection article (Article 24) detailing obligations such as maintaining a complaint log and, for facilities with capacities exceeding 700 people, placing a log at every entry point. Such measures illustrate a clear framework for accountability and consumer rights within large venues.
Roberto Barceló Vivancos, president of Consumur, argues for regional regulations that are stringent enough to responsibly manage nightlife operations while allowing legitimate business activity. He calls for enhanced enforcement, including mandatory annual inspections and the capacity to increase inspection frequency when warranted. The aim is to ensure facilities meet minimum compliance standards under applicable law and to prevent future safety lapses.
To move forward, Consumur has urged the Murcia regional government to establish a cross-disciplinary commission. This body would include experts, regulators, and consumer representatives to review current laws, assess implementation gaps, and study strengthened safety measures through legislative updates. The organization also requested the City Council of Murcia to provide responses to recent inquiries, including inspection records for the Teatre venue from December 2008 through March 2022, highlighting the need for transparent oversight of nightlife venues.