The Balearics put their body into it

PalmaWe complain, and rightly so, about how the so-called European investors – who are speculators or aspire to be so – arrive in the Islands to acquire plots of land or finished villas and transform them into real estate assets. They buy for one million and want to get three out of it. Or they rent to acquaintances and engage in tourist activity without any authorization. Of course, the transaction takes place in their home countries, and the Islands only provide the territory, their body, in short, so that others can get rich.

There are municipalities that have dedicated themselves much more to this economy that involves renouncing the landscape of all so that a privileged few can have it. This, in the 60s, was not known, nor was it thought about. Only a few denounced it. Today, there is a majority that considers enough is enough.

But from that to things changing, there is a big difference. Municipalities like Capdepera, Sant Lluís, Sant Josep, Calvià and Andratx, among many others, have specialized in chalets and in this economy of urbanization, if possible, of luxury. There are others.

All these municipalities have very well-watered public coffers. Because the contributions are not small. However, every year they sacrifice thousands of square meters for the enjoyment of only a few. In the case of western Mallorca, the coast is frightening and pitiful. Cement ensaimadas and chalets that devour pieces of mountain with indecent licenses. And, above all, an economy that needs to devour to maintain jobs. Only irresponsible politicians do not stop an unsustainable model that impoverishes the people from within, even if their children now go around in fancy cars. Towns with tasteless gardens, lawns and houses with jacuzzis.