That Barcelona’s downtown commerce is somewhat out of control is evidence to anyone strolling through the city. Or if not uncontrolled, at least very targeted to a single sector: tourism.
So now, in a new initiative to regulate commerce, the Barcelona City Council has decided to suspend licenses for new commercial openings of cannabis stores, cell phone accessories and pedicure/manicure salons throughout the Ciutat Vella district.
In addition, the granting of new licenses for any type of commercial activity in La Rambla has been suspended.
which businesses now have their license suspended?
gph-photo.deshuttertstock.
The list of businesses that will no longer be able to open in Ciutat Vella are the following.
- Cannabis stores or growshops: Retail trade of products for the cultivation of cannabis and related products.
- Cell phone accessory stores: Retail trade of cell phone cases, covers and accessories.
- Manicure and pedicure salons: Manicure and/or pedicure salon.
why are these licenses suspended?
The objective of the measure is to protect local commerce, diversify supply and avoid the concentration of activities focused on tourism. The measure is based on the revision of the municipal ordinance, which has allowed the creation of new specific headings to better control these activities.
As of now, the suspension is effective for one year from its official publication, extendable for one more year, to allow for a more thorough regulation of the district’s commercial and economic regulations.
The suspension of licenses is in addition to the recent modification of the Ciutat Vella Use Plan, approved in May, that regulates the opening of new supermarkets. The intention is to draw up a new plan during the current term to balance economic activity and the rights of Ciutat Vella’s citizens.
