The decision was made during a meeting of the Local Commerce Council, convened by the Gandia City Council. This body includes political groups, small business associations, large retailers, and other economic stakeholders in the city. Following debate, the outcome was ten votes against and two in favor of the expansion.
The Councilor for Commerce, Elena Moncho, conveyed the decision: «The Local Commerce Council of Gandia has spoken out by a majority against the expansion of the tourist high-traffic zone; there were 10 votes against and 2 in favor, and from the city council, we respect this outcome and will communicate this decision to the Generalitat, defending a balanced and consensual trade model».
This rejection is not a final decision, as the authority to authorize or modify a Tourist High-Traffic Zone lies with the Generalitat Valenciana. However, it represents a significant stance, reflecting the opinion of the main sectors affected.
In practice, rejecting the expansion means opting to maintain the current opening model and avoid a regime of hourly freedom. Tourist High-Traffic Zones allow included businesses to open without usual time restrictions during specific periods, particularly on Sundays and holidays.
Those opposing the expansion typically argue that this measure helps protect the balance between large retailers and small businesses, preventing smaller enterprises from having to bear higher labor costs to compete with extended hours.
With the voting result, the City Council will communicate the majority stance of the Local Commerce Council to the Generalitat, supporting a model that, according to the councilor, is «balanced and consensual» for the entire commercial sector of the city.
