Spain holiday hotspot loved by British tourists issues new warning over major ban
British tourists have been warned about visiting one of Spain's popular holiday hotspots as a new ban is set to come into effect.
Holidaymakers heading to Spain's southern region are facing a potential pool ban due to severe drought conditions.
The new rules have thrown many holiday plans into uncertainty, with sun-seekers concerned about the prospect of not being able to cool off in the sweltering heat.
However, confusion over the regulations means it could be down to local councils to decide whether public or privately-owned pools can be filled.
Arta Council is set to propose a motion at Monday's meeting to halt the granting of planning permission for the construction or renovation of swimming pools, jacuzzis, or any installations that use water for recreational or decorative purposes.
This move is in response to the "urgent" need to address drinking water shortages in the municipality.
The council believes "will allow the study and formulation of the proposal for the modification of subsidy regulations with the maximum consensus and will prevent the frustration of its objective with the massive presentation of projects and licence applications for the construction of swimming pools".
The ban could be in place for up to one year.
The number of swimming pools in the municipality has seen a significant rise over the past few years.
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The municipal town planning department's archives reveal that in the last five years, at least 279 new private swimming pools have been given the green light.
Mallorca has been on pre-drought alert for months now following a relatively dry winter and last year's heatwaves and record high temperatures.
On June 5, due to drought conditions, the council issued a decree for the towns of Colonia de Sant Pere and the developments of Montferrutx and s'Estanyol. This prohibited garden watering, pool filling or terrace cleaning, and capped water consumption at 117 litres per inhabitant per day.
Valldemossa, where Hollywood star Michael Douglas owns an estate, has also introduced similar measures. Two years ago, Deya had to enforce strict water restrictions due to dwindling resources.
