Marbella’s Beach Plan Sparks Protest Among Local Business Owners

Marbella’s beach plan for 2022-25, which aims to reduce the space allocated to beach businesses in the municipality, has triggered a protest. The plan is designed to free up space for locals and visitors to enjoy the beach. However, it has not been well-received by local sunbed rental business owners, who staged a demonstration outside the town hall.

Local Businesses Claim Unfair Treatment

The local business sector feels that they are being unjustly treated by the council. They pointed out that while their space is being reduced, some large hotel chains and beach clubs are being allowed to expand their areas. This, they argue, is detrimental to their trade. One of the protesters, Antonio, lamented the continuous reduction of their space. He revealed that their number of hammocks has decreased from 50 to 33.

Long-Standing Businesses Feel Ignored

Federico, another local businessman, expressed his frustration over the lack of communication from the council. He emphasized that they have been serving the town for decades. “We have been serving this town for forty, fifty years. These local families have been serving tourism for generations,” he stated.

Town Hall’s Response to the Protest

Despite the protest, the town hall maintains its plan to put all municipal pitches on the beach out for public tender. This move is seen as a way to ensure fair competition among businesses, but it has not quelled the dissatisfaction among the local business owners.