The ban on tourist rentals in Palma draws criticism: only 2% of the places disappear

PalmThe ban on new tourist rental places in Palm It's now a reality, but it hasn't garnered unanimous praise. The measure, approved by all municipal groups except Vox, has provoked a barrage of criticism from the opposition, who consider it belated, timid, and rather unambitious. Essentially, the specific amendment to the 2023 General Plan sets a ceiling of 4,473 Tourist Accommodation Units (ETH) and prevents this number from increasing, with the intention of gradually reducing it as units become permanently vacated. The reality, according to opposition sources, is that the measure only affects 2% of the units.

Sources within the PSOE in Palma acknowledge the step forward, but warn that it comes too late and lacks sufficient support. Socialist councilor Pepe Martínez demands that the ban be accompanied by...Thorough inspections to combat illegal supply to recover homes for residential use.

"We've been asking for this for two and a half years, and for the mayor, putting an end to either vacation rentals or illegal ones has never been a priority," he stated. According to the Socialists, the measure "falls far short" and, in fact, leaves more than 98% of current listings untouched. "If it were a real priority, there wouldn't be thousands of illegal listings while the mayor pretends Airbnb is wonderful," Martínez quipped. Despite the criticism, the PSOE voted in favor "out of a sense of responsibility," but demanded more political courage and a real fight against illegal tourist rentals so that the ban doesn't end up being, they say, "just empty words."

Along the same lines, MÁS per Palma has expressed its opinion that the PP's response is too little, too late. The eco-sovereignist spokesperson, Neus Truyol, recalled that between 2015 and 2023, the PP systematically voted against any limitations, moratoriums, or bans on tourist rentals. "The PP has always sided with those who make millions in housing profits, while many residents are being forced out of Palma," she denounced.

Truyol emphasizes that this ban will only eliminate 2% of tourist rentals in the city, a figure he calls "laughable," and points out that even reports from the municipal government itself confirm, "in black and white," the diagnosis that MÁS por Palma and social movements have been making for years: "Tourist rentals cause problems." "Now they are forced to acknowledge the disaster they themselves have helped to create," he concluded.