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New restrictions on where homes, garages and other buildings can be constructed could soon affect some of the most flood-prone parts of the Region of Murcia.

 

The proposed rules, put forward by Spain's Ministry for Ecological Transition, are designed to reduce the impact of flooding following recent disasters such as the devastating DANA storms that hit Valencia in 2024 and repeated flooding around the Mar Menor.

 

Under the plans, new homes, underground garages, basements and other below-ground structures would be banned in areas considered to be at the highest risk of flooding. Schools, healthcare facilities, care homes, sports centres and large commercial premises could also face restrictions.

 

The biggest impact is expected to be felt in municipalities including Cartagena, Lorca and Molina de Segura, as well as several towns in the Vega Media del Segura. Areas around the Mar Menor, including Los Alcázares and Los Nietos, could also be affected.

 

In lower-risk flood zones, residential construction may still be allowed, but buildings would need to be raised above predicted flood levels and underground construction would remain prohibited.

 

The proposals would also require anyone selling a property in a designated flood-risk area to declare this in the property's official paperwork. The information would then be recorded in the Land Registry.

 

The draft regulations are currently open for public consultation and have not yet been approved.