Story By: Jonathan Macias, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Newsflash

The Spanish Balearic Islands’ party season is at risk as the regional government has forbidden nightclubs and late bars from reopening despite national rules allowing them to do so.

The Government of the Spanish Balearic Islands, led by President Francina Armengol, announced on Sunday that nightclubs and bars are not allowed to reopen as the region moves into phase 3 of Spain’s easing of lockdown restrictions today (Monday).

Armengol told local media: “We are not in the conditions to allow nightlife, it is not a priority.”

Reports state the message was published on Sunday on the Balearic Official Gazette (BOIB) as some businessmen on the islands think reopening nightlife could see a return of booze-based tourism and drinking in the streets.

Several members of the nightlife sector reportedly gathered in front of the Government Delegation to protest as the Ministry of Health allows other establishments such as some bars, restaurants, theatres, cinemas and museums to open as long as they remain within 50 percent of their capacity and customers can keep a social distance of two metres (6 feet).

Local media reports that late bars and nightclubs have been allowed to reopen in other regions that have started the phase 3 today such as Cantabria were they will have permission to start their activity again not exceeding a third of their capacity.

These kinds of establishments will reportedly also have to adapt their spaces to new regulations by limiting the dance floor area, making customers wear face masks and adapting VIP areas for tables.

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