Tarragona municipal vote threatens Parador hotel project

The proposal to convert the former Banco de España building in Tarragona into a Parador National hotel is facing political uncertainty. The Tarragona City Council recently approved a motion presented by ERC and ECP to promote dialogue with local entities regarding a potential project for a 'Casa de la Festa' at the site.

This motion, supported by ERC, ECP, PP, and an unaffiliated councillor, stands in opposition to the Parador plan. If the project for a community center proceeds, it would be incompatible with the tourism development. The municipal government, led by the PSC, faces a potential lack of a majority for the decisive October vote required to transfer the property to the State for a 20 million euro investment.

Proponents of the community center, such as ERC spokesperson Xavier Puig, argue the building should serve as a civic space with exhibition halls, noting that the current 'Casa de la Festa' is poorly located. Meanwhile, Mayor Rubén Viñuales has denied claims that the Parador project would require the expropriation of nearby properties.