The future of the kaolin mine in the Serranía Baja region of Cuenca has become one of the most pressing issues for local residents. The decision to expand mineral extraction has sparked disputes between neighboring villages and threatens their customary way of life. For many Spaniards, this is not merely a local standoff—it is about the fate of small towns, their economic survival, and the preservation of natural heritage.
Divided interests
At the heart of the conflict is the small village of Arguisuelas, where most residents oppose the expansion of one of the two operating mines. Locals fear that the new mining area will encroach on a beloved natural site—the El Viso viewpoint, famous for its sunsets. In December, authorities organized a poll among registered residents: out of 64 votes, 48 were against. However, according to activists, the actual number of opponents is higher, since many property owners live outside the village but are also against the project.
At the same time, neighboring municipalities suffering from depopulation and aging see kaolin mining as their only chance for economic survival. The mayor of Carboneras de Guadazaón, located eight kilometers away, emphasizes that preserving jobs is vital for the region. According to him, kaolin extraction and processing provide about 60 direct and 30 indirect jobs, which is critical for the local economy.
Environmental concerns
Opponents of the mine expansion refuse to accept the prospect of yet another excavation. They recall how machinery near Cerro Alejo has already caused part of the hillside to collapse. In addition to threats to the landscape, locals complain about noise, dust, and a declining quality of life. They argue that promises of development and an influx of new residents do not match reality: no one would want to live in a place where constant noise and air pollution are the norm.
Activists claim the number of jobs is exaggerated, and that only around 10 people are actually employed in Argisuélas itself. Moreover, kaolin resources are not infinite: the mining permit has been granted for 10 years, after which, according to the opposition, all that will remain is a vast pit right next to the village.
Legal specifics
SICA-Euroarce, the company that owns the mine, cites all the necessary permits obtained as far back as 2021. The Argisuélas municipality granted an urban planning license in 2022 but denied a new application for expansion in 2024, particularly concerning El Viso. Nevertheless, Spanish law allows authorities to approve compulsory acquisition or temporary occupation of land in the public interest, especially when it comes to mineral extraction.
The company insists the process will move forward, even if forced enforcement becomes necessary. Opponents fear that their protests will only delay the inevitable and will not stop the work.
Money and promises
Local authorities and residents criticize the company’s proposals, considering them insufficient. According to a municipal spokesperson, SICA-Euroarce offered €150,000 over 15 years as well as the construction of recreational areas, the creation of an energy community, and even a swimming pool. However, these measures do not compensate for the loss of natural assets or the deterioration of the environment. Currently, the company already pays €23,000 a year, but these funds do not address the key issues.
Promises to restore the site after mining ends are also met with skepticism. Examples from other mines, where only barren land remained after reclamation, do not inspire residents’ confidence. Over the past decades, the population of Argisuélas has fallen from 338 to 127, and kaolin extraction has failed to halt this decline.
Internal disagreements
There is no unity within the municipality itself. The absence of a secretary for two months has made it impossible to formally fix the residents’ position at council meetings. Local officials note that the initial environmental assessment pertained to other areas, and the current project affects more valuable natural zones. There is also criticism of neighbors from Carboneras, who, according to some, should focus more on their own environmental issues rather than interfering in Argisuélas’ affairs.
The company’s technical representatives acknowledge that there are differing opinions in the community, and the survey only confirmed the deep divide between supporters and opponents of expanding mining.
In recent years, Spain has repeatedly faced similar conflicts over mineral extraction. In regions with low population density and limited job opportunities, disputes between environmental advocates and supporters of industrial development have become increasingly intense. In some cases, it was possible to restore parts of natural areas after operations ended, but often the consequences for ecology and local communities proved irreversible. Similar situations have occurred in Galicia and Asturias, where finding a balance between the economy and environmental protection continues to spark heated debates.
