Low-emissions area goes down like a balloon

The Mijas Merchants Association has voiced strong opposition to the proposal of a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in Mijas Pueblo, accusing the town council of producing little more than a ‘pamphlet’ lacking technical details or supporting pollution data.

The group, which was attended by more than 200 locals at a recent gathering, warned that the LEZ would have severe economic consequences for the local businesses. Association president Martín Gómez criticised the study, claiming it violates national laws by relying on outdated data, some of which is nearly 20 years old, and without real up-to-date pollution measurements in Mijas. ‘Mijas Pueblo enjoys clean air, and no serious studies justify these restrictions,’ shop owners argued. Gómez further claimed that the study lacks expert signatures and was contracted out to inexperienced firms through a minor bidding process.

Mijas Pueblo will suffer from the effects of the new low-emissions zone

The merchants have also criticised that the council has bypassed public consultations, including with shop owners and residents. This has caused widespread discontent. ‘Decisions must follow the law and technical rigour, not politics. ‘We won’t let baseless measures ruin Mijas’ businesses and families,’ one declared.

They warn that the LEZ will threaten the economy which is heavily dependent on tourism and commerce, particularly without alternative parking options or an economic impact study.

The LEZ comes from an European Commission requirement that towns of at least 50,000 people must have a zone with low emissions in the most polluted part. The LEZ plan was inspired by a European Commission requirement that towns with 50,000 residents or more must have a low-emission zone in their most polluted area.