The growing proliferation of vacation homes in Lanzarote requires that the public debate be opened on its economic and social impact. While this commercial activity could be understood by some as a way to diversify the economy generated by mass tourism, the logical question arises for me: What will be the social and resource cost of this boom?
The unrestrained expansion of this niche in the real estate market could trigger a series of negative social consequences that local administrations would have to face with their resources. Although one would like to understand that the rise of this business can boost the local economy, what is undeniable is that it poses significant challenges: from displacement and gentrification to the alteration of the social fabric and local identity, among others. Of course, these are issues that deserve our attention, and of course, those who legislate and manage public affairs.
The multiplication of the number of homes that are used for tourism in the Canary Islands is reaching a remarkable magnitude. There are the official data of the Government of the Canary Islands, more than two hundred thousand new tourist places, almost fifty thousand extra-hotel licenses linked to this vacation offer. As I say, these are official data, but it is possible that they will double or triple, since many operate without a license or that behind a single license dozens of apartments are hidden, as has already been the case on the island.
This phenomenon is not only modifying the urban architectural framework, but threatens to alter the social balance in the neighborhoods. The increase in the price of rent, the lack of housing to rent for a long season, the increase in prices in general in residential areas or the inconvenience for residents of the logical activity and attitude of those who come on vacation, are the first effects to appear. The next thing is the displacement of the neighbors of the neighborhood and the gentrification.
One of the most worrying aspects is the increasing number of new constructions that are used for tourism in residential urban areas. In a context in which access to long-term rental housing is almost impossible for families, dedicating apartments and entire blocks to tourist rentals raises at least an ethical question. Secondly, one should ask whether this trend is in line with the spirit and essence of what vacation rentals are supposed to be in their origin.
When I say that vacation rentals can become a social problem, I am not referring to the activity that generates extra income for that retired couple who have a second little house, or to those siblings who manage an apartment inherited from their parents. I am referring to the large property owners, including banks, construction and real estate companies, I am referring to foreign investments that buy entire blocks and complexes to allocate them to this activity because they are seeing a bonanza in the lack of regulation by the local administration.
All of this forces me to ask myself, who really benefits from this new real estate boom? To what extent can the right to free enterprise prevail over the fundamental right to decent housing? To what extent is it sustainable to sacrifice social stability and local identity in order to continue sipping every drop that is squeezed from mass tourism?
This dilemma not only involves the inhabitants and local administrations, but also connects with the identity of the island. The very essence of the neighborhoods is threatened by the transformation driven by touristification. Authenticity, community and sense of belonging are aspects that run the risk of eroding in the process.
In conclusion, this explosion of commercial and economic "opportunities" raises crucial questions about the development model we are pursuing. In addition, it demands a deep reflection on how to balance economic progress with the preservation of the quality of life and community cohesion. Without a doubt, the challenge lies in achieving careful planning and policies that balance economic interests with social needs, two fundamental aspects to guarantee prosperity without losing the essence and sense of community.
Leandro Delgado Zalazar, spokesman for Lanzarote En Pie (LEP)