Construction beneath La Seu: Is the Eco-Tax at Parc de la Mar Being Invested Wisely?

Between bell chimes and sea scent: the construction site arrives

The Parc de la Mar, that narrow green strip between the cathedral La Seu and the sea, is about to undergo a major transformation. The city has approved the second renovation phase: start in the second half of 2026, duration about 20 months of construction at Parc de la Mar. On almost 24,000 square meters paths, stepped seating, benches, fountains and railings are to be renewed, the sealing above the parking garage replaced and the utility lines completely exchanged. For many morning runners, dog owners and photographers this means: 20 months of construction noise instead of the sound of the waves.

The central question: Where does the eco-tax go?

The sum: around €9.4 million. About six million of that comes from the tourist tax—the so‑called eco-tax debate in Mallorca. That is a lot of money from visitors who pay hoping for sustainable projects. So the question is permitted: Will this create real benefits for locals who jog under the bell chimes and look for the plane trees' shade every day—or will it mostly be a cityscape project aimed at postcard pictures?

More than pretty stones: engineering, climate and accessibility

The administration rightly emphasizes: it is not just about aesthetics. The sealing above the parking garage is overdue, drainage systems need to become more efficient, pipes and lighting should be modernized and access made barrier-free. Anyone who runs along Carrer de Antoni Maura in the morning knows the puddles after heavy showers and the hot, parched island beds in late summer. The announcement to use native, Mediterranean species for replanting sounds like a sensible climate plan—provided implementation and maintenance are appropriate.

Open questions: oversight instead of trust

The plans mention protecting the tree stock and restoring listed sculptures. But precise answers are missing: Who will monitor the root zone when heavy machinery works close to the plane trees? Which substrates will be used so young trees do not dry out after two years? These technical details decide whether the project strengthens the park or weakens it in the long run. Transparent reports and regularly published inspections would build trust here.

Partial opening instead of full closure: a compromise with limits

The city plans phased construction so sections remain open. Practical—and yet: 20 months is a long time. Promenade vendors, small concert organizers and photographers will have to reorganize. Particularly sensitive: when will the loudest works fall into the high season? No one wants the drumbeat of heavy machines under the bells, but that is exactly what could happen if schedules are not coordinated with users.

Concrete opportunities: How the eco-tax can deliver real added value

If millions from the eco-tax are being spent, the cityscape should not be the only result. Suggestions that could sustainably improve the Parc de la Mar include:

1. Plan construction times intelligently: Schedule loud hammering outside the main season or limit it to narrowly defined time windows—the dawn deserves its peace.

2. Independent tree oversight: An independent tree protection officer, publicly accessible reports and regular inspections would safeguard the old plane tree.

3. Citizen participation: A steering group of residents, sports groups and cultural actors can help shape construction sections and access—acceptance grows on site.

4. Temporary alternatives: Mobile benches, shade sails and additional drinking fountains on alternative routes can mitigate the loss of recreational quality.

What residents should do now

Those who have breakfast here, run or take photos in front of the cathedral should plan more flexibly in the coming years. Earlier morning runs, alternative routes or coordinating photo shoots are practical responses. Small event organizers should agree dates with the city well in advance—and keep an alternative plan ready.

A cautious conclusion

The renovation of the Parc de la Mar is necessary: the parking garage and infrastructure need modernization. What will be decisive is whether the invested eco-tax produces more than a pretty facade—namely real climate resilience, improved accessibility and a park that supports the daily life of Palma residents. If independent controls, transparent reports and genuine citizen participation take place, a long construction period can turn into a park for decades: with shade, the scent of the sea and not just shining for Instagram. That would be a benefit everyone can hear—even the bell.