Hotels will have to face the backlash of increased tourism – with hikes in water rates meaning they’ll have to pay more. Those working in hotel management believe the government has preempted conclusions of the sustainability pact.
The increase was announced during the parliament’s general policy debate by President Prohens, reports Majorca Daily Bulletin. Hoteliers were not happy to hear of this change and two other issues which will impact them.
These two other issues include no commitment to eliminating apartment holiday rentals and an increase in the tourist tax.
The island’s tourist model is under review after much debate has circulated recently regarding over tourism.
Hoteliers said they have not been consulted about changes and as a major part of tourism on the island they should have been consulted.
The increased revenue from the tourist tax, which should be around 12 million euros from 136 million to 148 million has not been specified in the 2025 budget draft.
In terms of the water charge increase, this was specified at 22 million euros more, up from 90 million to 112 million.
President Prohens said: “Water is a resource. The objective is that those who consume more, pay more, and to encourage savings.”
The increase in water rates is included in the decree of urgent measures against tourist saturation which is expected to come from the working parties’ deliberations.
Hoteliers said the increase for large consumers was “ill-advised” and said they are efficient in their consumption of management water.
This comes after over tourism protests have swept across Europe in the past year with locals worried about the impact tourists have on their island.
While some residents took to the streets to protest, some businesses which rely on tourism are keen to evolve the way it works on the island.
Source: express.co.uk