'El Marítimo te está esperando'. This is the slogan adopted by businesses on Palma's Paseo Marítimo, which is 'waiting for you', as they seek to revitalise the city's frontline following years of suffering caused first by the pandemic and then by the redevelopment.
This could also translate as 'hoping for you', but there is optimism, a member of the board of the ABONE nightlife association, Valerio Petrillo, saying: "The Paseo Marítimo is now a more beautiful and better-maintained area than before; it probably needed this kind of renovation. The challenge now lies in supporting this new phase with some practical improvements, such as enhancing accessibility and parking, to make it easier for residents and visitors to return."
Petrillo reckons that businesses have suffered financial losses of up to 90%. "Not all businesses have been able to survive with so little activity. But it's important to bear in mind that in leisure and commercial areas there's always a certain turnover of businesses. We're now starting to see new projects and openings. With the businesses that have managed to stay afloat and the new initiatives, we're confident.
"It's starting to be noticeable at specific times. For example, on International Women's Day we saw full terraces, which was reminiscent of the atmosphere as it used to be. This trend will continue to grow, especially with the arrival of warmer weather and also thanks to the improved offerings in the area. We are confident that the Paseo Marítimo will once again establish itself as a leading leisure destination in Mallorca.
"When a project of the magnitude of the one carried out on the Paseo Marítimo is undertaken, it's normal to have a transition period with a slight decrease in activity before things pick up again. In any case, the result is very positive." He is of the belief that the area will become "even more vibrant than before".
Nevertheless, there are issues that need addressing. "There are practical matters that can greatly help accelerate the recovery, such as improving accessibility and facilitating parking." The businesses therefore emphasise the importance of continuing to strengthen cooperation with the authorities. "For us, it is crucial to have more for dialogue and working groups for efficient communication with the Balearic Government, the town hall and also the police."