Spain's Malaga to ban new holiday flat permits in 43 neighborhoods

New restrictions aim to curb mass tourism and protect local residents

The city of Malaga in southern Spain has announced plans to ban new holiday flat permits in 43 neighborhoods. The measure is part of a wider effort to curb mass tourism and protect local residents from its negative effects. The ban will come into effect on 1st June 2023 and will apply to all new applications for holiday flat licenses.

Impact on the tourism industry

The ban is expected to have a significant impact on the tourism industry in Malaga, which has been booming in recent years. In 2022, the city received over 6 million tourists, a 10% increase on the previous year. The vast majority of these tourists stayed in holiday flats, which have become increasingly popular due to their affordability and convenience. The ban is likely to lead to a decrease in the number of tourists visiting Malaga, as well as a decrease in the amount of money they spend in the city.

Response from the tourism industry

The tourism industry has reacted negatively to the ban. The president of the Association of Holiday Flats in Malaga, Sergio García, said that the ban would "damage the tourism sector and the local economy." He argued that holiday flats are an important part of the city's tourism infrastructure and that the ban would make it more difficult for tourists to find affordable accommodation. The ban is also likely to lead to job losses in the tourism sector, as many businesses rely on income from holiday flats.

Support from local residents

The ban has been welcomed by many local residents, who have been complaining about the negative effects of mass tourism for several years. They argue that holiday flats have led to a rise in noise and anti-social behavior, as well as a decrease in the availability of affordable housing for local people. A recent survey found that 70% of Malaga residents support the ban on new holiday flat permits.

The future of tourism in Malaga

The ban on new holiday flat permits is a significant development in the debate about the future of tourism in Malaga. It is clear that the city needs to find a way to manage the negative effects of mass tourism, while also protecting the interests of local residents. The ban is a step in the right direction, but it is likely that further measures will be needed in the future.