Residents of Son Macia in Manacor have reached breaking point. Tired of noisy buggy excursions that have become commonplace in their small municipality and daily disturbances that have sparked numerous complaints, around twenty locals staged a symbolic protest on Thursday by blocking one of the roads used by the buggies.
To make their point, protestors built a barricade out of straw bales, effectively stopping the buggies in their tracks. The demonstration was peaceful and had a festive air, with people playing card games and bringing melons to share.
Jaume Adrover, speaking on behalf of the protestors, highlighted that the issue extends beyond Son Macia, affecting many other municipalities close by. He called for a regional ordinance to prevent conflicting rules between municipalities, noting that many of these companies continue operating despite numerous violations.
Adrover also stressed the severe impact on the local community. He described how the buggies cause extensive damage, disturb residents, and create hazards for cyclists and pedestrians. The noise, dust, and disruption to rural roads are major problems, and the excursions offer no benefits while causing significant harm.
Local police responded to the protest, identifying those who had set up the barricade and those operating the buggies. The authorities are now investigating the buggy operators, suspecting that many lack the necessary permits for their excursions.
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We were plagued by these noisy buggies a few years ago in Cala D’Or and a combination of residents blocking the lead vehicle and prompt action by Santanyi council brought this menace to a halt. Apart from the noise during the siesta hours they were filmed constantly speeding down residential roads near the beach narrowly missing people and reported to the police who also took action.
I'd say they don't look any different than most young Mallorquins. But it does appear that this anti-tourist thing is more of a an excuse for a social gathering than a cause. Like St. Patrick's day or something.
Lewis BlackBales not bails!! Is your mind on ‘other’ matters?
Lewis BlackAnd what are Mallorcans supposed to look like?
strange but the people sitting on the bails of hay don't look very Mallorcean to me....how local is this protest?
They fully have my support. Too many "tours" like this in buggies, quad bikes and 3 wheelers. On their own it would be OK, but they tend to group together in a tour of 8-10 vehicles - following a lead vehicles. They are an absolute menace. For me this is an excellent example of where the current protests against excess tourism have a very valid point and where the authorities need to be more active in limiting new tourism activities like these "tours" that disturb and devalue the peaceful daily life in our rural areas and small towns and villages.