The Balearic Government remains firm on allowing construction in flood-risk areas under the Administrative Simplification Decree, a regulation currently in force and set for final approval next Tuesday in Parliament.
This decision has raised eyebrows as it would lift previous restrictions on building in high-risk zones, including areas susceptible to flooding, fires, and erosion.
More flood-prone areas than indicated on official maps
Mallorca has more flood-prone areas than indicated on official maps. Spain’s Ministry of Ecological Transition has identified 43 official high-risk zones—11 rivers (or “torrentes”) and 32 coastal areas. However, geographers like Joan Estrany and Cels Garcia note that many other risk areas remain unmapped. Small river basins and so-called “phantom torrents” (disappeared or covered streams) are not included on current maps. These watercourses, impacted by urban development or agricultural changes, still pose a risk. An example is the Torrent de Sant Magí in Palma, which could impact buildings and streets built over its former path.
The limited size of the Balearic Islands compounds the flood risk, as smaller watersheds respond more quickly to heavy rain. This was recently highlighted by the impact of an isolated storm (“dana”) in Mercadal. Estrany stresses the need for new technologies, such as drones equipped with lasers, to capture more precise topographical data and better assess flood risks. Aside from the officially designated areas, Garcia points to other vulnerable zones, such as the fire station in Palma, the Festival Park, and tourist spots like Santa Ponça and s’Arenal. Coastal areas are especially at risk. Storm surges can prevent river water from flowing out to sea, leading to greater flooding.
Experts also highlight that a significant portion of the population lives or works in these high-risk zones. In Palma alone, around 56,000 people could be affected by a storm similar to the recent one in Valencia
570 parcels cleared for construction in risk zones
In this context, it is surprising that this year alone, over 570 parcels, particularly in Mallorca, have been greenlit for development due to the aforementioned decree. The estimated breakdown is 287 in Campos, 98 in Palma, and 64 in sa Pobla. These regions face significant flooding risks, with potential disasters looming in cases of severe weather events like ‘DANAs’ (isolated high-impact storms). Environmental advocacy group Terraferida has expressed deep concerns and is urging the government to reconsider. Because they believe these zones should remain off-limits to new development.
Also read: New homes planned in flood-risk area Orihuela Costa
Environmental and political debate heats up
During a recent parliamentary session, the President of the Balearic Government, Marga Prohens, faced questions from Més per Mallorca’s spokesperson, Lluís Apesteguia. Prohens, while avoiding direct commentary on revising the decree, emphasised the importance of “prevention”. However, she refrained from a definitive stance on reversing the policy. She highlighted the necessity of broad consensus to address potential disasters. “The zero-risk concept is unattainable, but I am open to deepening this discussion”, she said.
Meanwhile, Unidas Podemos’ Cristina Gómez took a stronger stance by challenging the appropriateness of the timing for such a divisive political move, especially following recent storm-related damages. Prohens retorted, defending her position and the timing of the decree’s potential ratification.
Environmentalists demand government accountability
Environmental groups and local stakeholders argue that these constructions pose an increased threat to both property and lives, given the worsening climate-related events in the Balearic Islands. As the decree heads for a final vote, expected next Tuesday, the calls for a reversal echo louder, with advocates for sustainable development pushing for enhanced protective measures in these vulnerable zones.
The final decision will reveal whether the government aligns with environmental demands or proceeds with enabling construction in risk-prone areas. That move could redefine the landscape and safety of the Balearics.