Improvements to the Path Network in Bellver Forest to Curb Erosion

This priority project aims to restore footpaths and improve public access to this urban green space

What does it consist of?

Palma City Council has carried out restoration and improvement works on the paths in Bellver Forest to halt their environmental degradation. Funded by sustainable tourism tax, the initiative aims to protect this urban green space and ensure it is used responsibly by locals and visitors.

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Data

PROJECT TITLE IN THE CALL
Recovery and re-conditioning of the Bellver Forest pathways
LOCATION
Mallorca (Palma de Mallorca)
Entity submitting the PROJECT
Ajuntament de Palma
Entity that executes the project
Ajuntament de Palma
Project code
ITS2017-033
Total project amount
904.133 €
ITS granted amount
904.133 €
Executed amount
506.035 €
Call year
2017
Budget implementation status
Executed
Purpose
Environment
Budget execution
Executed: 55.97%
Last updated
08.05.2025

The project

Bellver Forest is one of Palma’s major green spaces, but its condition has declined in recent years due to the breakdown of the ecosystem and rapid soil erosion. Haphazardly constructed and poorly maintained paths have caused vegetation to break down into small isolated patches, which hinders its natural development and exposes the land to irreversible damage.

The main reasons for this situation include outdated, insufficient forestry practices and significant human pressure on the forest, which has to cope with large numbers of visitors and tourists on a daily basis. Heavy footfall and constant trampling have stripped large areas of vegetation, leaving the ground bare and vulnerable to erosion caused by rainwater runoff, which threatens to make this loss permanent.

The project has addressed the top priority set out in the Bellver Forest Management Plan, approved in 2016: to create a network of clearly defined signposted paths that channel foot traffic and minimise environmental impact. It also includes the restoration of existing footpaths, signage installed in public spaces, and a public awareness campaign on the responsible use of the forest.

With an investment of over €900,000, funded entirely by sustainable tourism tax (ITS), these improvements are seen as essential to ensuring the conservation of Bellver Forest. The project has a double environmental and educational goal, and ensures that this urban park remains both an accessible and sustainable natural space for future generations.