The city council of Palma de Mallorca has proposed a ban on new holiday rentals and a series of restrictions on cruise passengers and rental cars to address the issue of overcrowding. This proposal, announced by Mayor Jaime Martínez on May 29, 2024, comes in response to increasing concerns about the impact of tourism on the Balearic capital.
The proposed measures include the prohibition of new tourist rentals in all types of housing and the implementation of two new taxes on cruise passengers arriving at Palma's port and entering the city. Additionally, there are plans to limit the number of tourist groups, restrict certain cruise ships, and ban or limit party boats in Palma.
These proposals follow a significant demonstration that took place on May 25, 2024, which saw around 10,000 protesters demanding action against tourist overcrowding and the housing emergency. The demonstration, organized by groups like Banc del Temps, featured slogans such as "Mallorca is not for sale," highlighting local frustrations.
Amidst these tensions, Balearic tourism minister Jaume Bauzá has called for peaceful protests and reassured that the government is working towards solutions that balance economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Further protests are planned, with groups urging locals to "storm" beaches to make their demands heard.
The City Council will discuss the proposed measures in a plenary session set for Thursday, June 1, 2024.