Environmentalists demand review of motorhome decree in Cantabria's protected areas

The Salvar Oyambre platform has urged the Cantabrian government to reconsider applying the new motorhome decree in protected natural areas. Activists warn of irreversible damage to Oyambre Natural Park, citing risks of mass tourism and simplified procedures for service areas.

The Salvar Oyambre platform warned Thursday of the 'irreversible impact' of the new motorhome decree on protected areas in Cantabria. It demands a halt to new projects near Oyambre Natural Park, independent environmental assessments, and strict application of the precautionary principle. The decree simplifies procedures and removes capacity limits for service areas, risking fragile ecosystems including Natura 2000 sites.

The Salvar Oyambre platform has called on the Cantabrian government to reconsider the application of a new decree on motorhomes in protected natural areas. Activists demand an immediate halt to new motorhome parking projects near the Oyambre Natural Park, independent environmental assessments, and strict application of the precautionary principle. They argue that the decree, published in the Official Gazette of Cantabria, removes capacity limits for new service areas and simplifies administrative procedures, posing risks to ecosystems, including Natura 2000 zones.

The Salvar Oyambre platform has voiced concern over Decree 35/2026, which regulates campsites and motorhome service areas in Cantabria. The group argues the regulation prioritizes tourism expansion over environmental conservation. It notes the decree lacks specific protection measures for coastal natural parks and Natura 2000 sites. Risks include removal of capacity limits for new service areas and simplified administrative procedures, potentially leading to soil compaction, dune and marsh degradation.