Palma parking plan could cut short-stay spaces by 82.4%

Palma, Mallorca: a parking overhaul could cut the city centre’s short-stay blue-zone spaces from 1,247 to 220. The Balearic Retail Business Federation (Afedeco) warned on 9 October 2026 that the proposed change amounts to an 82.4% fall, and has challenged it. The new layout for the regulated parking area, known as ORA, in the low-emission zone is due to take effect on 1 January 2027.

Traders want the impact checked first

Afedeco president Joana Manresa wants a study of what fewer short-stay spaces would mean for shops, services, customers and economic activity in central Palma. The federation says the documents it has seen do not show that such an assessment has been done.

It also wants current figures for public car parks and park-and-ride sites: available spaces, occupancy, prices, opening hours and access. Afedeco says it remains unclear whether public transport could handle extra demand.

Which spaces would change?

The federation is asking for plans showing exactly which 1,027 spaces would lose their current parking rules and which 220 would remain available for short stays. It also wants talks with retail groups and other affected sectors.

Afedeco’s challenge questions the technical grounds for extending the regulated parking area to Son Oliva and Son Fortesa Sur in Palma. It wants the changes suspended until the studies, documents and consultation are complete. Manresa says Palma can pursue more sustainable travel while keeping its centre accessible.

Topics: Palma

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com