A huge row has erupted in a popular resort in Majorca loved by British tourists. Locals in Alcudia have raised concerns about the construction of six new beach bars, known as balnearios.
Deeming the project ‘a deception’, the residents have hired lawyers in an effort to stop the construction by taking legal action.
Locals believe that information about the size and location of the six new balnearios was withheld, as some of new bars obstruct access to the beach, as well as views of the sea.
While no grievances were raised against it when it was proposed, the project has moved away from its initial objective of ‘replacement of the beach balnearios.’
Not only are the run down beach bars being replaced, but the new ones are also serving as a nuisance to neighbouring ‘sea-facing’ restaurants and residences by being 17 metres higher than the old balnearios.
With overtourism a rampant concern across the island, with locals holding a protest on a beach at the weekend, the group in Alcudia are holding the town hall responsible for being business-minded about the whole affair.
The town’s mayor, Fina Linares, has maintainted that amendments to the seven-year long project cannot be made, and that the Costas Authority will not tolerate any changes.
Earlier, construction of the balnearios extending into summer raised concerns about the aesthetic value of the seaside. Mayor Linares promised that tourists and other beachgoers will be greeted by tarpaulins featuring ‘beautiful images’ intended to preserve the holiday experience.
At present, five balnearios are under construction, while one suffers delay due to fifteen pine trees requiring removal.