Annual report 2011: Spain’s National Preventive Mechanism Bars on the door of a cell at the local police station in Valverde Photo 13 del Camino (Huelva) Metal mesh ceilings at the CNP-run Primary Assistance and Detention Centre for Foreign Photo 14 Nationals in Almería Shortcomings in building structures were observed that could hinder the urgent evacuation of the GC barracks in El Ejido (Almería) and the GC headquarters in Cuenca 74  Another shortcoming that could affect the safety of both detainees and custodial officers was observed at the GC barracks in El Ejido (Almería): a narrow spiral staircase down which detainees must be taken to reach the cells in the basement. The area has an outside door that is never used. Instead detainees are always escorted through the main entrance to the barracks. The DGGC has reported that structural renovation work and the elimination of this staircase are being considered. Similarly, in the GC headquarters in Cuenca the corridor where the cells are located is so narrow that when cell doors are opened they touch the opposite wall. This is considered unsuitable for emergencies or urgent evacuation, in line with the criteria indicated in paragraphs 96 and 103 and elsewhere in the Annual Re-   THE OMBUDSMAN OF SPAIN