Barcelona officials plan to use revenue from the city’s tourist tax to purchase commercial real estate in the city center to combat the displacement of traditional businesses. The strategy aims to curb the rapid growth of souvenir shops, cannabis retailers, and mobile accessory stores that have replaced neighborhood commerce, according to Jose Antonio Donaire, the commissioner for sustainable tourism management.
Key Takeaways
- The city intends to acquire commercial properties to ensure they remain available for local residents.
- Funding for these acquisitions will come from the municipal tax levied on overnight tourist stays.
- The administration previously implemented restrictions on opening specific types of businesses to control tourism pressure.
Officials have not yet provided details on the timeline for acquisitions or how the purchased properties will be managed. #Barcelona #Tourism #UrbanPlanning @bcn_ajuntament