I`ve read the messages posted and as expected we are not alone in our concerns and frustrations on this development. Our initial excitement with the planned development has turned to a constant worry and , we still have no idea when or if we will take possession, or indeed whether we will lose the payments we have made. We exchanged contracts on our Apt in phase 2 in October 04, and when the Apt wasn`t ready as planned in June 06, (there having been no activity on site for months), gave notice to terminate which was rejected by the developer on the ground that the delay had been caused by judicial intervention because of some alleged link to problems at Marbella Town Hall !-- but that the developer was an innocent party.(it maintained). Our agent has told us that because the developer exceeded its permitted square footage on phase one by creating rooms out of what should have been open terraces, the planning permission is illegal and the Town Hall won`t issue Habitation Certificates for phase 2 as a result( but the developer could rectify the position by submitting amended plans reducing the floor area of other phases so that the total area as permitted by the original permission is not exceeded.So far as I know the developer has done nothing to try and remedy the problem- but we have asked our Lawyer (Teresa Morenilla of Multiservice Bureau based at La Manga Club) to find out what she can - Is anyone else using this lawyer and is anyone else considering taking legal action against the developer.
She has suggested we issue proceedings for the delay but is talking of substantial costs so we are reluctant to embark on such a course especially since she is unable to say whether we are likely to be successful ,and of course if we lose we pay the developers costs as well !
In frustration we also have been considering instructing another lawyer(a firm of English solicitors in London who specialise in foreign property )but again do not relish the additional costs.
We would welcome any advice/information/ pooling of knowledge on this mess , which sems to be a regular occurrence in Spain,
We have not seen the Development since October last year but will be going out again just after Christmas for a few days so we will then hopefully see what if any progress has been made.
Martin B.