The mayor of the Spanish city of Barcelona has pledged to do away with quick-term tourist lets in the town within five yrs.

Socialist Jaume Collboni informed a news conference he does not prepare to renew any of the 10,101 tourist licenses granted to landlords when they expire in November 2028.

Mr Collboni reported the appartments, which are currently marketed on platforms this kind of as Airbnb and Homeaway, would be obtainable to locals as a substitute.

Politicians opposing the go accused him of undermining home legal rights.

Mr Collboni said that the measure would be “equivalent to creating 10,000 new homes”.

Justifying the plan, he claimed rents experienced risen by 70% above the previous 10 many years and experienced turn out to be unaffordable.

“More offer of housing is desired, and the steps we’re presenting currently are to deliver extra supply,” he additional.

Barcelona has struggled with a limited offer of housing for years.

Politicians blame significant prices of tourism as effectively as the city’s developing status as a tech hub attracting overseas workers.

New building has not saved up with the enhanced need, driving up charges.

Reacting to Mr Collboni’s announcement, some remaining-wing councillors mentioned 2028 was way too far in the long run for persons they said have been being pressured out of the town now.

Janet Sanz questioned: “Can we wait right up until 2028?”

Proper-wing politicians accused Mr Collboni of undermining property rights.

“The Barcelona Metropolis Council can’t resemble Bolivarian routine,” Barcelona Well known Celebration leader Dani Sirera wrote, referring to the government of Venezuela, which has been accused of expropriating property.

The Association of Vacationer Residences of Barcelona said the transform would direct to flats remaining illegally rented to visitors.

The coverage was a “smokescreen” for the failure of Mr Collboni’s housing plan, it additional.

In current months, hundreds have protested in parts of Spain, such as the Canary Islands, against the consequences of mass tourism, which they claim is harming the surroundings and driving locals out.