This Friday, the Andalusian Council of Commerce praised the complete declaration of a Zone of Great Tourist Influx for Roquetas de Mar (ZGAT), which was made after the town lost recognition of ‘Tourist municipality Andalusia’ for exceeding 100,000 residents.
Roquetas de Mar has had this cataloging done since 1997. It was renewed in 2020. The Decree Law, which aims to simplify and improve economic regulation, added new features. The Board approved it based on the Board’s designation as a “Tourist Municipality”, which was the reason that the Rock City Council used to justify its request for recognition. The Ministry of Economic Transformation annulled the ZGAT on May 5 after it failed to meet this requirement because its population exceeded 100,000.
There was concern in the municipality about losing time freedom in the summer months. This is a crucial period for tourism and has been consolidated over many years. The Andalusian government has now recognized a new High-Influx Zone Tourism. It is based on two requirements stated in regulations: have more than 100,000 inhabitants and have more that 600,000 overnight stays at tourist accommodation between 2017 and 2019.
The measure was supported by the Andalusian advisory committee on trade issues, which includes the Board, main business associations, trade unions, consumers, municipalities, provinces, and entire network of camerals.
The ZGAT new has the same characteristics of the previous one and it will apply to the entire municipal term. It will also be in effect during Holy Week, which runs from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday both inclusive; and in the summer, which covers between June 1 to September 30.
Retail establishments in this municipality have the right to set their opening hours and days during peak visitor times. Roquetas de Mar is the provincial capital. Carboneras and El Ejido are also included.
