Malaga city centre and the Teatinos neighbourhood have been off limits for new bars and restaurants since 2019, but the city council is now proposing a five-year ban
Malaga, a Spanish city adored by Brits for its holiday appeal, is now facing the threat of a mass exodus of tourists due to a potential new ban.
The historic heart of Malaga is preparing for a significant shift that could mark the end of a five-year ban on new bars and restaurants. The city council has revealed a €72,600 (£60,000) scheme to evaluate noise levels across the centre and the Teatinos neighbourhood.
Both areas were labelled Acoustically Saturated Zones (SAZ) in 2019, putting a stop to the opening of new bars and restaurants in these tourist-heavy spots. Restaurant owners in these vibrant districts have been campaigning for the lifting of these restrictions, arguing they have hindered business growth in two of Malaga’s most lively areas.
Malaga is one of Spain’s top tourist destinations, attracting around 14 million visitors last year, but this popularity has come at a price. Over the summer, the city witnessed protests against overtourism and anti-tourism campaigns, and this proposed ban would be the latest step in cracking down on unwanted visitors.
A six-month study, set to start after December 4, will determine whether noise levels have improved since the restrictions were implemented. The results will directly influence whether the council maintains or changes the current ban. An external company will be employed to conduct noise monitoring tests across the affected streets, reports the Express.
A technical study is set to be launched, employing a minimum of two acoustic specialists to install five permanent noise monitoring units across the zones. This will be accompanied by various other measuring equipment including towering five-metre-high tripods and a weather station.
The outcome of this assessment, which could have a significant impact on Malaga’s future as a tourist hotspot, is expected by mid-2025.
