Importance Score: 65 / 100 🔴
New Beach Rules in San Sebastian Spark “Miserable Life” Accusations
San Sebastian, Spain – New beach restrictions implemented at La Concha beach, a celebrated tourist hotspot, have prompted a backlash against the coastal agency. The Spanish coastal authority revealed new regulations aimed at mitigating beach overcrowding by reducing the number of parasols by a third, a move criticized by local officials as “making life miserable”.
Reduced Parasols Blamed on Climate Change
Under the new directives, the number of parasols will be reduced from 440 to 290. This decrease will be achieved by relocating parasols further inland on the beach. Authorities attribute this adjustment to rising sea levels, a consequence of climate change, which has narrowed the beach’s expanse. Carlos García, the Councilor for Urban Maintenance, clarified that the order is based on a 2024 report detailing a recent surge in the tide line, directly attributed to “climate change“.
Mayor Condemns Coastal Authority’s Actions
However, the Mayor of San Sebastian, Eneko Goia, has publicly accused the coastal agency of “making life miserable.” During a press briefing at City Hall, following local government approval processes, Mayor Goia voiced strong disapproval.
“It appears the coastal authority is on a mission to make life miserable for coastal municipalities,” he stated, labeling the decision as “just another” illogical action.
The Mayor further detailed other challenges he believes the council has faced, citing a planned urban development for Loiola barracks as another example of bureaucratic obstacles.
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Councilor Defends Restrictions as Necessity
Councilor García defended the beach regulations, explaining a shift in policy: “What until now was a recommendation has now become a requirement.”
He elaborated, stating: “Although it has disrupted our initial plans, it’s not merely a whim of the Coastal Authority, but the result of a study conducted in 2024. This study demonstrates how the beach has been evolving recently, with climate change identified as a primary factor.”
Parasol Spacing Mandate
In the region, regulations stipulate that parasols must be positioned at least six metres from the sea to accommodate high tides.
Other Beaches Unaffected
The state agency has emphasized that the beaches of Ondarreta and La Zurriola will maintain their current parasol provisions, with no changes planned.