Growing tensions between the City Council and the tourism sector
The conflict between Barcelona City Council and the owners of tourist apartments has resurfaced with force. Councillor Jaume Collboni has expressed his intention to eliminate these accommodations before November 2028, a decision that has provoked a strong reaction from the employers’ association Apartur.
The defense of tourist apartments: a question of percentages
In a letter to Collboni on November 26, Apartur president Enrique Alcántara argued that legal tourist apartments represent only 1% of the city’s total housing stock. Alcántara argues that eliminating them will not solve the current housing crisis, as these apartments are not the cause of the problem.
Empty homes and offices: the reality of the real estate market
Furthermore, it is highlighted that Barcelona has 9,000 empty apartments and 27,000 that function as offices, which highlights the complexity of the real estate market and the need for a more comprehensive approach.
Proposals to address the housing crisis
Apartur has proposed allocating the 160 million euros collected through taxes on tourist apartments to housing policies, in addition to requesting an increase in the municipal budget dedicated to this sector.
Comparison with other European cities
The sector has criticized Collboni’s management, pointing out that only 3,000 social apartments have been created during his term, an insufficient figure when compared to cities like Vienna or Amsterdam, which have 15% public apartments.
The role of tourist apartments in the local economy
Defenders of tourist apartments argue that their existence is vital for the city’s economy, as it generates around 5,000 direct jobs and encourages local commerce with 65% of guests’ spending in the neighborhoods where they stay.
Impact on international events
In addition, Apartur has warned that the elimination of tourist apartments could affect the holding of major events such as the Mobile World Congress, since these accommodations are preferred by four out of ten participants in fairs and congresses.
Reflections on the future of tourism in Barcelona
The debate on tourist flats in Barcelona presents itself as a complex challenge that requires a balanced approach and a deep analysis of its repercussions on housing and the local economy. The solution is not simple and involves a constructive dialogue between the parties involved to find viable alternatives.
