Canillo Approves Strict Terrace Rules for Uniform Aesthetic

Canillo parish council approved updates to terrace regulations during Tuesday's session, mandating neutral dark tones, dark wood, and two standardised models—a simpler version and a "chill-out" design for extended use—to create a uniform, elegant aesthetic aligned with ongoing urban beautification efforts.

The new rules prohibit bright colours, advertising elements, and covered or semi-covered structures, which major consul Jordi Alcobé described as visual obstacles resembling "a building in front of a building." Tourism Promotion and Commerce councillor Alex Kinchella, who chairs the relevant commission, stressed the need for a "harmonious and coherent parish" through easily sourced materials that integrate with the landscape. Public Highways councillor Miquel Casal specified a minimum 1.2-metre clear space for pedestrians. To offset adaptation costs, businesses will be exempt from public space occupation fees until 1 January 2029, a measure minor consul Marc Casal said would cover more than 50% of expenses for most establishments.

The regulations take effect next week following publication in the Official Bulletin of the Principality of Andorra (BOPA), requiring all new summer terrace applications to comply. Officials noted constructive consultations with restaurateurs throughout the process.

In the same session, the council reviewed first-quarter 2026 budget execution, reporting a €5.27 million surplus, zero communal debt, €9.84 million in settled revenues against €4.58 million in expenses, and €5.59 million in net treasury. Casal called the figures "positive," attributing low expense liquidation—15% of budget—to projects still in tender or award phases, while revenues hit 33% of projections early in the year. Alcobé highlighted sustainable management despite investments like the €2.5 million purchase of part of Prat del Portal de Branqueta for green spaces, allotments, and a public park.

Other approvals included a €216,000 contract for a 20-space car park with landscaped areas at the CG2-Meritxell junction, expected to take two months; a €50,600 agreement with Ensisa for an inflatable play park at Tarter parking from July to mid-September; a €140,000 credit supplement for Branqueta enhancements; and a government deal for five parcels totalling 1,171 square metres to widen the CG2 between Vall del Riu and La Trava.

The council also approved a €225,000 snow removal expense increase due to heavier-than-expected winter falls and appointed three new traffic agents—Brais Taboada, Carla Fernández, and Carles Martínez—bringing the corps to 20 for full morning and afternoon rotations.

On the proposed Canillo-Roc del Quer cable car, Alcobé said it cannot proceed without agreement from two opposing landowners, despite assent from six others, as negotiations continue over non-financial objections.