Spain travel warning over five-year ban amid tourist holiday fears
Fears of a mass exodus of holidaymakers due to a possible new ban are emerging in Malaga. The Spanish spot is a popular tourist destination for UK travellers.
But the historic city centre of Malaga is bracing for a significant transformation which could see the end of a five-year prohibition on new bars and restaurants. A €72,600 (£60,000) project revealed by the city council will assess noise levels across the centre and the Teatinos neighbourhood.
Both areas were designated Acoustically Saturated Zones (SAZ) in 2019, bringing to a stop the opening of new bars and restaurants in the tourist-heavy locations. Restaurant owners have been lobbying to have the restrictions lifted.
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They have argued that the restrictions have stunted business growth in two of Malaga's liveliest areas, Express reports. About 14 million visitors made trips to Malaga last year - but this has come with a cost.
Protests about overtourism and anti-tourism campaigns took place last summer. The proposed ban would be the latest measure in cracking down on unwanted guests.
A six-month study will determine whether noise levels have improved since the restrictions were put in place. The findings could impact whether the council maintains or alters the current ban.
An external firm will be hired to carry out noise monitoring tests across impacted streets. At least two acoustic specialists will be brought in to install five permanent noise monitoring units throughout the zones.
Various other measuring equipment, including five-metre-high tripods and a weather station, will also be introduced. The results of this assessment are anticipated by mid-2025.