British pensioner loses life savings

500,000 euros lost in building ban

By Nikki Luxford and Tom Cain
BRITISH resident, Frank Bowers, is currently facing the loss of his life's savings after Jávea town hall suspended all building licences.

The 71-year-old moved to Jávea six years ago and invested 500,000 euros in purchasing building land that was scheduled for urban development.

He explains that he researched the project before investing: "The project bestowed several benefits to the local community.

"Relatively wealthy purchasers who would bring money to Jávea to spend on local services and goods as well as the luxury villas would create direct local employment by way of gardening, pool cleaning, house cleaning etc."

Mr Bowers explained that he planned to build one house a year, and from the income generated from each sale he would send his two children to university as well use the money to live on.

However, Mr Bowers noted that because the money is tied up, he is unable to support his family as planned.

He beleives the suspension of the licences has has an adverse effect on the town: "How has suspending the licences benefited the town? It has not.

"I am not the only one affected and another land owner, Antonio Serrano, went on a hunger strike on the Arenal beach."

Frank Bowers claims the properties would have enhanced the area as the land is currently derelict.

He explains that he has worked his life as an inventor and has developed several recreational surfaces for children's play grounds, but now his life's savings are worthless.

Despite trying to contact the local mayor and sending several emails, he has received no response.

He also admitted that both he and his wife are now suffering from depression and need to take tranquilizers. They feel they have lost all hope.

Frank Bowers would like to hear from other people who have been similarly affected with a view to joining forces. He can be contacted on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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