SPAIN’S first ever seven-star hotel, set to be built on the Costa Tropical, has lost its building licence.

The town hall in Almuñécar has withdrawn the licence for the luxury Bahía Fenicia Hotel after the local government claimed it was awarded without proper authorisation.

The hotel – which is set to be operated by the Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts chain – was reportedly granted a building licence just four days before local elections and two days before a negative report on the project was submitted to the town hall.

A spokesman for Banyan Tree said: “Although it is not responsible for obtaining licences related to building and construction, the management of Banyan Tree is in close discussion with the owner and developer to understand and assist in the situation.”

All paperwork must now be legally approved before the project can proceed, although the government has said it is not opposed to the hotel.

The seven-star hotel and spa – only the second in Europe – was due to open the first phase of the project in 2013.

And it is hoped the 230 million euro investment will put Spain in the same league as other seven-star destinations such as the Caribbean.

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2 COMMENTS

  1. Well for a welcome change, SOMEONE in Town Hall is insisting on use of proper legal procedures before building proceeds. Whoever thinks this hotel project will “put Spain into the same league … as the Caribbean” has little knowledge of tourism/marketing. When tourists want a holiday with many 5-7 star resorts + Sun, Sea and Sand – over the years they selected the Caribbean due to LOCATION, difference in CULTURE and BRAGGING RIGHTS to their friends. It’s “cool” to boast you vacationed in St Barts… or St Maartens, or on a private Caribbean Island like Nekker – but to boast you vacationed in Almunicar, Spain… puleeeze!

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