New Environmental Law
Environmental reform in Spain can become a serious threat to beach bars, hotels and other businesses located on the first coastline. The Ministry of Environmental Transition in Madrid is considering an amendment to the Law on Coastal Zones aimed at countering the risks associated with sea level rise and climate change.
Danger Of Reclassification Of Coastal Zones
According to sources from The Olive Press, the proposed amendment defines as "risk zones" all areas on the coast, including cliffs, embankments, sandy beaches and the sea. If the law is passed, the owners of real estate in these areas may lose ownership, as the territories will be reclassified as public. This can lead to the fact that beach bars, restaurants, hotels and even private houses will be owned by the state.
The possibility of Renting for up to 75 years
Despite the potential consequences, the bill provides that some facilities can be leased to their former owners for a period of 30 or 75 years. However, after the end of this period, the State will have full control over these facilities, including the possibility of their demolition or redevelopment.
Protests Against Environmental Reform
The proposed amendment has already provoked strong opposition in various regions of Spain. In the city of Denia, Andalusia, mass protests took place against the proposed law, as it may affect about 4,000 properties, which causes outrage among local residents. The threat of loss of property raises serious concerns and causes a wide public response.
At the moment, the bill is under development and must undergo public discussions before it is finally adopted. This allows us to hope that public pressure can influence the course of the reform and lead to a revision of the most controversial provisions.