More Denia News

Dénia doubles up in summer

By: Samantha Kett, thinkSPAINtoday


Dénia’s population soars by a whopping 140 per cent in the summer, a census has revealed.
Parking problems, crowded bars and shops, traffic jams and packed beaches are a symptom of the Marina Alta capital’s success as an international tourist destination.

From October to May, the town’s registered population sits at around 40,000. However, in the height of summer, this figure rises to 100,000.

However, given the number of inhabitants who have not registered on the local census or padrón, it is estimated that the true headcount is nearer 60,000 outside the holiday season.

Tourists from other parts of Spain and European countries – typically the UK, Germany, France, Holland and the Baltic states – bring vital income to Dénia, but also put a strain on the health service and traffic situation.

To ease the mayhem, councillor for trade Pepa Ribes has used the findings of this research, carried out by the Institut Interuniversitari, to apply to the regional government for Dénia to be recognised under the heading of an Area of Great Tourist Affluence.

This means it may be entitled to greater provisions, funding and planning permission to adapt the municipality to the annual influx of holidaymakers.

It will also allow large shops, supermarkets and department stores to open on Sundays, permission for which is currently denied.