Ibiza’s Untapped Economic Potential: A Tourist Rental Revelation
Ibiza, often celebrated for its picturesque beaches and vibrant nightlife, harbors a hidden economic potential that, until recently, remained largely unexplored. A modification of the Insular Territorial Plan (PTI) has shed light on the possibilities, particularly in the realm of tourist rentals and agro-stays. In this article, we uncover the economic impact of these activities, which could yield a staggering 156 million euros annually.
Tourist Rental in Farmhouses: A Financial Game Changer
The economic report accompanying the modification of the PTI reveals an intriguing opportunity—tourist rental of peasant houses built before 1956. This activity, previously untapped, has the potential to inject a substantial 156 million euros per year into Ibiza’s economy, with each property potentially earning a gross income of 166,000 euros.
Understanding the Numbers
This remarkable projection is based on an estimated 939 homes of this type that could potentially be available in Common Rustic Soil and the Rural Area of Landscape Interest (ARIP), excluding fire risk areas where tourist activities are prohibited. The calculation assumes an average daily income of 156.3 euros per person (with each house accommodating up to eight guests) and an average occupancy rate of 77%.
Balancing Preservation and Progress
While the PTI modification prohibits vacation rentals in most rustic areas, it maintains the possibility of tourist rentals in houses constructed before 1956, provided they are located in common rustic areas or ARIP outside fire risk zones. This balanced approach seeks to protect Ibiza’s heritage while allowing property owners to benefit from the island’s tourism appeal.
Agro-Stays: A New Avenue for Economic Growth
The PTI modification introduces another groundbreaking concept—agro-stays. In Natural Areas of Special Interest (ANEI), where traditional tourist activities were restricted, property owners can now explore a new revenue stream: room rentals. This innovative provision permits up to three rooms (with a maximum capacity of six guests) to be rented for 60 days a year, as long as the owner also resides in the house.
Expanding Possibilities
This change is particularly significant for approximately 261 properties located in ANEI areas, potentially generating an annual income of 33,385 euros per owner. With an estimated average occupancy of four guests (maximum of six), these agro-stays offer property owners an opportunity to offset the substantial maintenance costs associated with rustic houses.
Equal Opportunities
The regulation of room rentals in ANEI is intended to provide property owners with an additional income source and a more level playing field. It acknowledges that all houses, whether on rustic or ANEI lands, share similar maintenance challenges and financial burdens.
Why the Ban in LIC and ZEPA Areas?
In areas designated as Special Bird Protection Areas (ZEPA) and Places of Community Interest (LIC) within the Natura 2000 Network, all forms of tourist exploitation, including vacation rentals and agro-stays, are prohibited. This stringent restriction is rooted in the need to protect bird species from potential disturbances such as noise and vehicle movement.
Estimating the Economic Impact
The economic report also calculates the potential economic impact of the prohibition of tourist rental on rustic land for houses constructed after 1956. This figure is estimated to be around 1,054 million euros. However, it’s essential to note that this projection is theoretical, assuming that all eligible houses in Ibiza would engage in tourist activities. In reality, this income will not materialize, as many property owners use these houses as their primary residences.
In conclusion, Ibiza’s modified PTI has unveiled a wealth of untapped economic potential, particularly in the realms of tourist rental and agro-stays. These activities could breathe new life into the island’s economy, providing property owners with additional income streams and preserving the essence of Ibiza’s heritage. As this remarkable transformation unfolds, it’s clear that Ibiza is poised to leverage its natural beauty and cultural richness for sustainable economic growth.
