Spain is normally a hugely popular holiday destination for Britons. However, the coronavirus pandemic has thrown an enormous spanner in the works and messed up the plan of countless holidaymakers. Anyone returning from Spain now has to quarantine for 14 days on their return.
The authority says the new timescale will continue “indefinitely” or until the evolution of the coronavirus pandemic allows a reversal.
The news will affect those hoping to stay out late and enjoy the warm evenings as well as those hoping to bag an early spot on the sands.
Speaking on behalf of Ángeles Muñoz, Marbella’s mayor, municipal spokesman, Félix Romero said of the additional measure: “Our goal is to prevent social gatherings, such as parties and barbecues, which could pose a risk to public health and a focus on possible outbreaks.”
The local police have been asked to step up patrols and will be responsible for making sure the new times are adhered to.
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Sunbathers will be given an extra half an hour to tidy up and go home by 10pm.
Romero added: “Although today the situation is controlled from the health point of view, it is necessary to take measures to slow the progress of the virus.”
The council said: “It is clear that on the beaches, as anywhere, there is always a level of risk, but in a party environment, the risk is much higher.
“With this measure we want to ensure that this situation is avoided this year as much as possible.”
It is now mandatory for everyone over six years to wear a mask, on public roads, in outdoor spaces and in any closed place, or that is open to the public, regardless of the maintenance of the interpersonal safety distance of 1.5 meters.
In the hotel and catering establishments and services, including bars and cafeterias, masks have to be worn except when physically eating or drinking.
The Canary government is also warning that masks must be worn in the proper way. They must cover the nose and mouth completely at all times and go under the chin to make sure no droplets are released into the air.
Spain currently has more coronavirus cases than the UK – a total of 342,813 confirmed cases.
Additional reporting by Rita Sobot.