Balearic Islands: Construction Industry Poised for a Strong Upswing - What It Means for the Islands

More work on construction sites — and not just at the port

Over the past few weeks, even the café owner at Plaça del Mercado has noticed: in the mornings the first excavators are already at it, coffee cups clink, and somewhere in Santa Catalina a new scaffolding begins to gleam. The construction industry in the Balearics is entering the next season with more optimism. Experts expect considerably more projects — especially in renovations and public construction projects.

Renovations gaining momentum

The regional Chamber of Architects expects that renovation work could make a strong leap — roughly around forty percent more projects than the previous year. That means less demolition, more upcycling of old houses, roofs renewed, façades refreshed. For residents, that often means dust, yes, but also fewer vacant historic buildings and more energy efficiency in the streets we use every day.

New buildings and public investments

At the same time, new construction projects are not lagging behind. Forecasts point to increases of around forty percent in new building projects. The public sector has already tendered substantial funds: by September alone, several hundred million euros were awarded — with projects that can be clearly plotted on a map, such as an expansion at Palma airport, a new hospital project in the Felanitx area, and school buildings in municipalities like Llucmajor.

What does this mean concretely? More orders for local construction companies, more work for masons, electricians and tradespeople. Many smaller businesses that had to cope with quiet months for years are now seeing prospects again. At the same time, a boom brings challenges: supply chains, rising material prices and a shortage of skilled workers remain real obstacles.

From everyday life: Those who drove along Avenida Argentina this week counted the cranes. Some neighbors look forward to the renovated school two blocks away. Others worry about noise and parking. Both are legitimate.

Overall, the expected construction boom is likely to noticeably change the face of the islands in the coming months. Regional craftspeople will be in demand. And yes — probably some painted facades will look a shade brighter as a result. Not spectacular, but important: for work, living quality and the infrastructure we use daily.