Urban transformation to diversify tourism
The City Council of Madrid has taken a significant step towards decentralising tourism in the capital. With a new urban modification, the creation of accommodations will be allowed in more than 240 plots located in industrial areas across eight districts. This initiative aims to alleviate the tourist pressure on the city centre, promoting alternatives beyond the traditional hotel model.
The proposal, driven by the Department of Urban Planning, Environment and Mobility, aims to eliminate the current restrictions that only permit hotels on land classified as 'tertiary lodging'. Deputy Mayor Inma Sanz has defended this measure as a way to prevent all tourism from concentrating in the central core, thus allowing for a more equitable and sustainable distribution.
The new forms of lodging
With this modification, various forms of accommodation such as aparthotels, guesthouses, and flexible rentals known as ‘flexliving’ will be opened up. This latter system allows guests to choose stays that vary from a few days to a maximum of one year, thus adapting to the changing needs of the tourist market.
The affected areas include districts such as Arganzuela, Chamartín and Fuencarral-El Pardo. Among the specific locations are the Industrial Estate on the Burgos road and several key streets where these new accommodations are expected to emerge. This change not only responds to a growing demand from the tourism sector but also to a natural process of urban transformation where these areas have lost their industrial character.
Preventing abuses and ensuring quality
Previous regulations had restricted this type of development to avoid problems associated with covert residences. However, the new approach seeks to regularise these practices and ensure that spaces designated for tourism meet appropriate standards for local residents. This plan is expected to be presented to the Government Board before the summer for initial approval.
Aside from boosting the tourism sector, the City Council is also implementing measures to protect current residents. It will be allowed to rehabilitate empty buildings to convert them back into residential housing after a maximum period designated for tourist use. This is part of the effort to maintain a balance between economic development and quality of life for Madrid citizens.
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