Landmark Ruling in Bloc Tarragona Case
The High Court of Justice of Catalonia (TSJC) has ruled in favour of Barcelona City Council, confirming it can legally revoke tourist apartment licences in buildings where permanent residents live. The judgment, issued on Wednesday 4th November 2026, supports the council’s use of the Catalan law on economic activity to withdraw permits when tourist operations do not commence within three months of authorisation. The case centred on Bloc Tarragona, a building at 84 Carrer Tarragona where property owner Immobiliària Gallardo attempted to convert 120 homes into tourist accommodations. The council, under former mayor Ada Colau, initiated proceedings to revoke licences based on Article 36 of the Catalan law on economic activity, which allows for the nullification of permits if no economic activity begins within three months.
78 Flats Eligible for Licence Cancellation
The TSJC ruling confirms the revocation of a tourist permit for one flat in the building and paves the way for similar action in 78 of the 120 flats. The Socialist Housing Union of Catalonia, which has supported affected tenants, said the decision could set a precedent but stressed vigilance would be necessary in enforcing it. Despite the ruling, tourists continue to arrive. During a press conference on Wednesday morning, a young blond man with a suitcase was seen leaving the building, highlighting the ongoing tension between residents and short-term lets.
This confirms the legal path we’ve been pursuing is valid, and strengthens our ability to protect residential communities.
The council’s legal services argued that since no tourist activity had started in the targeted flats within the required timeframe, the licences could be lawfully withdrawn. The decision resolves previous legal uncertainty, as earlier administrative courts had issued conflicting rulings on the same mechanism.
Long-Term Impact Remains Uncertain
While the ruling strengthens the council’s position, the future for residents remains unclear. The property owner may still choose not to renew residential leases, particularly in flats not covered by the revocation route. The council’s broader promise to ban all tourist apartments in the city by the end of 2028 remains a distant goal, but this judgment marks a significant step in enforcing existing regulations. Residents in Bloc Tarragona are now waiting to see whether their rental contracts will be renewed, now that the economic incentive for tourist use in some flats has been removed. For now, justice has sided with the tenants.
Sources: Nació Digital, Ara.
