Sir, – Guy Hedgecoe’s article on the Spanish backlash to mass tourism is a timely reminder that uncontrolled numbers of visitors can have negative effects on the population and the environment (“Spain’s tourism backlash gaining traction among locals weary of seemingly unstoppable growth”, Opinion, August 5th).
Many Spanish locals are seeking a curb on tourism. They say the growing visitor numbers are putting pressure on infrastructure and are driving up rent to such an extent that locals cannot compete.
Media in the UK seem to be taking it personally, as though Brexit has put British travellers in the firing line. Perhaps there is a grain of truth in the assertion. A consequence of a Spanish curb, however, may mean an increase in numbers of UK holidaymakers here. While extra tourism is welcome, we need to put in place measures to control the numbers and avoid a Spanish situation here. This would require strategic planning at Government level, the sooner the better. – Yours, etc,
BOBBY CARTY,
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