Views: 7
The association that defends the interests of those who have built large illegal constructions on rural land recently criticized GOB for opposing their attempts to whitewash their image and push for legalization—a campaign that has been ongoing since the beginning of this legislative term.
Across Menorca’s countryside, in so-called “hortals” (small rural settlements), one can find 400 m² houses with pools and all kinds of luxuries. These buildings were constructed without permits and without paying taxes, yet they are now being presented as humble, essential homes.
The reality is that more modest houses have been eligible for legalization for over 20 years. In fact, since 2003, the existing regulations have allowed houses up to 90 m² in rural settlements to be legalized.
Many modern urban homes are smaller than this. Legalizing such constructions in the countryside is already an act of significant social generosity. After all, the rest of the population lives in legal homes, for which they have paid permits and other taxes.
To proceed with legalization, a Special Plan must be prepared to address issues such as wastewater treatment (which has been polluting aquifers for years), potable water supply, and road access. Some rural settlements have fulfilled these requirements, proving it is feasible.
However, those with large constructions want hundreds of square meters legalized without complying with these conditions. Over the past two years, we have witnessed a shameful spectacle where government authorities at both the Balearic and island levels are working to reward these offenders.
At the Balearic Government, they’ve dismantled the Anti-Corruption Office and dissolved the Environmental Commission, paving the way for rules that favor illegal constructions. This dishonorable public policy seriously damages the credibility of democratic institutions.
Not content with this, the association of large illegal villa owners is now demanding the creation of a public office (once again, funded by those who follow the law) to manage their legalization processes.
GOB has described this as possibly the largest urban speculation operation ever proposed in Menorca. The value of a massive house on rural land skyrockets if it becomes legal—offering rewards in the thousands or even millions of euros to those who have deceived society.
This is a dangerous territorial policy because helping offenders only encourages more violations.
Nevertheless, we trust that other mechanisms within the rule of law can intervene to stop this situation and, hopefully, hold those responsible for such spectacles accountable.