María Teresa Gómez, a 70-year-old resident of La Cañada Real, has been fighting against the Madrid City Council for over 16 years over her home built upon land designated as a municipal green zone. Living with her mother, daughter, and granddaughter, María Teresa's house has existed for more than 50 years, but the city plans to develop the nearby El Cañaveral area, which covers over five million square meters and aims to construct around 14,000 new homes for a projected population of 52,000.

The prolonged legal conflict has seen several rulings in favor of María Teresa and her family, particularly from the regional High Court (TSJM), which has recognized their state of defenselessness as the City Council has failed to properly notify them throughout the eviction process. This scenario is emblematic of broader issues of urban development versus resident rights in Madrid and highlights the struggles faced by individuals living in legally precarious situations as city officials prioritize urban expansion plans.

This case resonates deeply within discussions of housing rights, especially as cities grapple with the growing housing crisis. The ongoing battle not only underscores the personal toll on families like María Teresa’s but also raises questions about equitable development practices and the responsibility of local governments to protect vulnerable residents amidst urbanization efforts.