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La Manga businesses demand urgent shake-up of beach rules and tighter jet ski controls
With summer just around the corner, businesses want to see an end to the '50-metre rule' and a much firmer hand with jet skis in the Mar Menor
Business owners in La Manga are calling for an urgent rethink of beach rules, warning that the current regulations are creating a bit of a nightmare on the ground just as the UK May half-term and the summer tourist season approach.
These concerns were brought to the table during a meeting this week between the regional government delegate, Francisco Lucas, and local business reps. Everyone involved is worried that if things don't change, both the holiday experience and local businesses could take a hit.
One of the biggest headaches is how the rules for beach bars, or chiringuitos, are being applied. Right now, the law treats the bars and the sunbed rentals as two completely different businesses that have to be kept separate. In practice, this means there is often a massive 50-metre gap between your sunbed and the place you buy a drink.
While that might look fine on a spreadsheet in an office, it's a total pain for holidaymakers who have to trek across the hot sand just to get some lunch or a bottle of water. Business owners say it makes the beachfront look messy and unorganised, and they've even questioned whether the legal advice behind the rule is actually up to date.
Crackdown on jet ski safety
The other major worry is safety out on the water, specifically when it comes to jet skis in the Mar Menor. The problem isn't the rules themselves, but rather the fact that they aren't being followed or enforced. There have been constant complaints about jet skis speeding into areas clearly marked out for swimmers.
The businesses aren't trying to spoil the fun or get jet skis banned; they just want clearer boundaries and someone to actually keep an eye on things so that swimmers and riders can share the water without anyone getting hurt.
There is some good news, though, as Francisco Lucas has promised to look into both issues. He's already suggested that new safety measures for the water could be in place before the summer rush, and he's willing to push for a more workable solution for the beach bars.
Essentially, both sides are looking for a way to keep the summer season profitable and organised while making sure the environment doesn't pay the price.
Read also: Summer artisan market confirmed for Plaza Bohemia in La Manga
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