Mallorca Parliament calls for ban on new holiday lets

The Balearic Parliament in Palma, Mallorca, has partly backed a push to stop new holiday lets and put housing first for people who live on the islands. Deputies approved parts of a tourism-policy motion from MÉS per Mallorca on 9 September.

The motion calls for homes to be directed towards residents and suggests setting a minimum number of years living in the Balearics before a person can buy a property. It also seeks a cap on tourist accommodation places and a ban on new holiday lets.

Parliament backed the right to “live in one’s own territory” and recognised public protests against tourism overcrowding as legitimate. The motion rejects the label “tourism-phobia”, saying it can be used to discredit democratic demands rooted in social, environmental and territorial rights.

Airport plans and tourist promotion

The motion asks Spain’s central government to stop promoting the Balearics as a tourist destination. It also opposes expansion and restructuring plans at the islands’ airports, arguing they would bring more flights and boost Aena’s profits while structural problems worsen and service for residents remains poor.

The Balearic Government is urged not to negotiate, promote or fund new tourist air routes unless they are focused on residents’ needs.

Tourism tax money for water and protection

At least 25% of the Sustainable Tourism Tax, known as ITS, should go towards economic diversification, protecting land, environmental preservation and the energy transition, the motion says. It also calls for investment in water-cycle infrastructure to offset and cut water use linked to tourism.

The proposal seeks lasting increases in funding for island councils and town halls tackling illegal offers and unauthorised business practices. But PP, Vox and non-attached deputies rejected measures including a gradual reduction in the tourist offer, higher ITS and water charges for major consumers, and a tax on rental cars.

Topics: Housing · Environment · Tourism · Politics

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com