Durango is grappling with a significant number of vacant commercial spaces, particularly in the old town and neighborhoods such as San Ignacio, Landako, San Fausto, Aramotz, Errotaritxuena, Tabira, and Madalena. Over time, and due to the rise of large retail chains, traditional businesses like bakeries, beauty salons, fishmongers, greengrocers, cafes, and food shops have closed down.
The City Council has initiated a public consultation for a new ordinance that will permit the conversion of ground-floor commercial premises into housing, open until June 23. According to the Council, "there is currently a mismatch between housing supply and social demand, reinforced by population growth and smaller household sizes. Many vacant commercial spaces offer an opportunity to revitalize neighborhoods, make better use of existing buildings and premises, and meet housing demand without needing to develop new urban areas."
The aim is to increase the number of homes without using new land, provide a solution for owners of underutilized premises, and improve the appearance of neighborhoods with closed-down shops, the Council explained.
“"More and more shops are closing, and it's a shame given the rise of Lidl, Mercadona, and Eroski. You buy everything in those places, and the traditional shops will have to close."
Several residents view the idea of converting empty premises into housing as a positive solution, especially given the lack of generational succession in commerce and its overall decline. They note that many premises have been closed for over 50 years and their renovation is a good option.
Real estate agencies Kbia and Fernando Uribe confirm that housing demand exceeds supply, particularly among individuals aged 30 to 45. They report positive experiences in converting vacant premises into homes in Durango, where empty commercial spaces are abundant.
The association of traders and hoteliers Dendak Bai reports that 335 businesses closed in Durango last year, a 2.33% decrease from the previous year. While specialized food retail is declining, supermarkets, telecommunications, and perfumery are increasing. In hospitality, bars are down but restaurants are up. The association advises proceeding with the measure "carefully to avoid emptying the streets of commercial content, seeking a balance."
The ordinance stems from Durango's first Housing Plan, which identifies the conversion of vacant premises as a strategic measure to increase housing availability. The regulation will define suitable zones for conversion, the required characteristics of the premises, and the necessary procedures.
“"It's a way to give an outlet to premises that are sitting idle in commercial areas. There's a housing shortage, the premises have no outlet and are losing value."
