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News

News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain.

consumer-protection

Water Bill Hikes in England and Wales: A New Era of Increased Costs and Promised Improvements

In a significant development that will impact households across England and Wales, the UK regulator Ofwat has announced that average water bills are set to rise by 36% over the next five years. This decision, confirmed on December 19, 2024, marks a substantial increase in water costs for consumers.

The Reason Behind the Hike

The primary reason for this increase is to fund a £104 billion upgrade to the aging water infrastructure. Water companies, which were privatized in 1989, are required to reach settlements with Ofwat every five years. These agreements cover bill increases, investment amounts, and the returns investors can make. The current determination includes "substantial improvements" for both customers and the environment, as outlined by Ofwat's chief executive, David Black.

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technology

Worldcoin Ordered to Delete User Iris Data Following GDPR Violations

In a significant development that underscores the stringent data protection laws in Europe, Worldcoin, a cryptocurrency project known for its iris-scanning technology to verify human identity, has been mandated to comprehensively delete user data collected from its European users.

The Decision

On December 19, 2024, the Bavarian State Office for Data Protection Supervision issued a corrective order requiring Worldcoin to delete all iris scan data of its European users upon their request. This decision is in line with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which grants individuals the right to erasure of their personal data.

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sport

Astillero Celebrates Third Edition of Christmas Futsal Tournament

In the heart of Cantabria, the town of Astillero is once again gearing up for a festive and exciting sporting event: the third edition of the Christmas Futsal Tournament. This annual celebration has become a beloved tradition, bringing together local teams, families, and the broader community to enjoy the spirit of competition and holiday cheer.

The Event Details

The tournament is scheduled to take place in the days leading up to Christmas, with the exact dates set from December 22 to 24, 2024. The matches will be held at the local sports facilities in Astillero, providing an ideal setting for the teams to showcase their skills.

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crime-law

Cantabria's Judicial System Seeks Extension in Complex Roadworks Scandal Investigation

In a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the Carreteras de Cantabria scandal, the Juzgado de Primera Instancia e Instrucción número 5 (Court of First Instance and Instruction No. 5) in Santander has requested a six-month extension to continue its probe into the alleged corruption and fraud involving the regional roadworks sector.

Background of the Case

The investigation, which began in October 2022, has been one of the most complex and lengthy in recent Cantabrian judicial history. The case came to light in February 2023, revealing a web of alleged corruption that implicates several high-profile individuals and companies. At the center of the scandal is Miguel Ángel Díaz, the former head of the Servicio de Carreteras Autonómicas (Regional Road Service), who is accused of being the ringleader of the corruption network. Díaz, who was imprisoned for six months before being released and removed from his position, faces charges including cohecho (bribery), fraude en la contratación pública (fraud in public contracting), blanqueo de capitales (money laundering), prevaricación (malfeasance), and falsedad documental (documentary falsification), each of which could result in up to six years in prison.

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emergency-response

Drunk Driver Crashes into Lamp Post, Injuring Bus Passengers in Cantabria

Incident Details

In a disturbing incident that occurred on December 21, 2024, a drunk driver in Cantabria, Spain, crashed his vehicle into a lamp post, which subsequently fell onto a passing bus, injuring several passengers.

Location and Time

The accident took place in the evening hours in the region of Cantabria, a coastal area in the north of Spain known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. The exact location of the incident has been identified as a busy road where the lamp post was situated.

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sport

Expats in Spain: The Fascinating Story of 'Las Flechas y Los Jabalies''

In a heartwarming and unusual tale that has captured the hearts of many in Spain, a local sports team composed of expats and Spanish residents has made headlines with their unique name and spirited performance. Meet "Las Flechas y Los Jabalies" (The Arrows and The Wild Boars), a team that embodies the spirit of community and camaraderie.

The Team's Origins

Formed in the picturesque town of Valencia, "Las Flechas y Los Jabalies" came into existence in late 2023 as a result of a casual gathering of friends who shared a passion for sports. The team's name, inspired by the swift and agile nature of arrows and the strength and resilience of wild boars, reflects the diverse backgrounds and personalities of its members.

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