The Audiencia Nacional on 17 September 2026 the interim suspension on the construction of temporary accommodation in Port of Ceuta lifted. The decision gives the central government the green light to create temporary reception capacity on parts of the port site. The move comes against a backdrop of strained services in the enclave following a sharp rise in arrivals by sea.
The urgent proceedings were brought by the Sindicato Unificado de Policía The police union had cited security risks in the area around the port in particular. The Audiencia Nacional rejected this argument, finding that the conditions for continuing to block the use of the site no longer applied. This removes the bar imposed by the earlier order, which had temporarily halted construction on 16 September.
According to the government, an area of around 16,000 square metres at the Expansión Poniente of the port of Ceuta will be used temporarily. Responsibility lies with the Ministerio de Transportes, which ordered the measure on 5 September 2026. The Autoridad Portuaria de Ceuta had previously raised concerns about the occupation of the site. The central government, by contrast, points to the public interest and the need to ensure orderly arrangements for registration, assistance and onward travel at short notice.
According to media reports, the state plans capacity for up to around 1,000 people. The Audiencia Nacional did not set specific figures for occupancy, duration of use or security requirements. The substantive examination of the dispute is continuing in the main proceedings. Regardless, preparatory work can now begin on the designated site.
Politically, the decision shifts the pressure: alongside preparing the site, the central government must clarify routes for transferring people to mainland Spain and possible repatriations. The relief for the city of Ceuta could be felt quickly, provided the infrastructure is actually operational within days. Outstanding issues include security arrangements in the sensitive port area, the division of responsibilities between the Ministerio de Transportes, the Autoridad Portuaria de Ceuta and the prefecture, and the funding of operations.
Developments since mid-September are documented in official statements and consistent reports by national media. The Audiencia Nacional had previously stopped the installation of the camp in the port of Ceuta at short notice, before now lifting the suspension and once again allowing temporary use of the site.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).