- The works, which would cost EUR 1 million, were about to start in the biotope protected between Bermeo and Bakio. The influx of visitors to the island has increased due to its popularity in the world, to become the second tourist destination in Bizkaia with the largest influx of tourists. After opposition from several actors to the construction of the parking lot, the Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa has announced that it will rethink the plan.
Gaztelugatxe closed 2019 with almost 730,000 visits. The island is becoming a model of mass tourism and, therefore, the Diputación's plan was to build a car park with capacity for 51 passenger cars. The Member said that last year it would be over, but it has received strong social pressures, including the more than 100,000 supports received by SOS Gaztelugatxe. The project has, for the time being, been maintained.
The Provincial Council of Bizkaia has announced that it will take steps to “protect environmental wealth.” The number of visitors has dropped to 3,024, which means that the total number of daily visitors on the island stands at 340. SOS Gaztelugatxe has been suspicious of the Deputy’s decision, “experience will tell us if this soil can actually withstand that amount, without further degrading the area.”
The measure will be implemented as from 14 March, and in order for visitors to be able to access it, they must purchase a ticket online beforehand.