The Association of Tourist Housing in Andalusia (AVVA Pro) expressed strong disagreement with the limitation on the maximum number of tourist housing units (VUT) approved by the plenary session of the city of Granada, as a measure to curb the growth of these properties in areas where tourist pressure exceeds 10%.
As stated by the association in a press release, there are currently 7,187 such properties in the province of Granada, representing only 1.3% of the total housing stock. This demonstrates that these accommodation spaces «do not pose a direct competition to the residential real estate market.»
AVVA Pro emphasized that the imposed restrictions «constitute a clear prohibition that hinders the release of new properties.» They further pointed out that «it creates a slightly conducive environment for competition, directly impacting professionals in the sector and the diversity of offerings in Granada, hindering a free and fair market.»
Additionally, the association recalled that the Law on Market Guarantees (LGM) has stipulated that «any regulation must promote competition and ensure equal opportunities.»
Therefore, AVVA Pro called for «the establishment of a stable and balanced regulatory framework that protects both the economic fabric of the city, neighborhood coexistence, and citizens’ right to access affordable housing.»
In a context where tourism is an essential economic driver for Granada and Andalusia, the president of AVVA Pro, Juan Cubo, emphasized that «access to housing and tourist saturation cannot solely be attributed to development.»
According to Cubo, this issue «results from a broader set of factors,» adding that «the real problem in the sector lies in the new construction deficit, inefficient management of vacant properties, and the uncertainty long-term property owners are facing.»
Furthermore, the AVVA Pro delegate in Granada, Juan Salvador, warned that «imposed restrictions without dialogue generate legal uncertainty and unintended effects, such as the artificial reassessment of authorized properties or registration without real use as tourist accommodations.»
«Efficient regulations can only arise from negotiations, compliance, and consensus with those truly knowledgeable about the industry,» stated Salvador.
Therefore, the association insisted that «the correct path is to design regulations based on accurate information and open dialogue» with the sector.
Tourist Housing, «a fundamental pillar»
AVVA Pro has declared that tourist housing units are «an essential component» in the development of tourism and the economy. According to the latest data provided by the Association, it was revealed that in 2023, one out of every three tourists visiting the region chose to stay in these accommodations.
Data from the National Statistics Institute (NE), provided by the Association, indicated that this type of housing in Andalusia generated over 20,000 direct jobs, 12,500 indirect jobs, and approximately 9,000 self-employed individuals, «data that support its significant contribution to job creation in the community.»
This is because tourists opting for these accommodations seek not only comfort but also contribute to the destination. Therefore, these visitors spent an average of €1,076 per person, «which has a significant impact on the local economy,» according to AVVA Pro.
This investment in the economy has shown that it aims to «not only provide a place to stay but also foster economic development in the communities where they are located.»
Finally, AVVA Pro added that VUT also plays «a crucial role» in integrating tourists into neighborhoods, allowing them to enjoy an authentic and close experience of local life, increasing average stays and benefiting local sectors.