“Tulum’s New Urban Development Program Raises Concerns”

The Tulum City Council has given the green light to a new Urban Development Program (PDU), a move that has drawn criticism from various sectors. Critics argue that the PDU could potentially harm the municipality's economic and social development. The Secretary of Urban Development (SEDATU) of the Federal Government played a significant role in the PDU's creation.

Councilor Carlos Coral, the sole representative of the Citizen Movement (MC) who voted against the program, expressed disappointment over the council's approval of the PDU without a thorough understanding of its content. Coral warned that the PDU could have far-reaching implications for Tulum's future, particularly due to the restrictive measures it imposes.

Architect Guadalupe Portilla Mánica, a member of the College of Engineers and Architects, echoed the concerns, stating that the PDU could severely impact landowners and investors. She argued that the program is unfair to those who have invested in Tulum and worked hard to own land there.

One key issue with the new PDU is the significant reduction in permitted density for construction in various areas of the municipality. Urban density refers to the number of homes, buildings, or people that can inhabit a specific area. The PDU, heavily influenced by SEDATU, imposes strict limits on density, which could hinder real estate development and the municipality's ability to expand.

The decrease in density could affect not only real estate developers but also the housing supply in Tulum. With fewer constructions permitted, housing availability for the growing population could decrease. This issue, combined with the influx of people expected due to new regional construction projects like the Maya Train, could create a challenging situation for the local community and future workers in the municipality.

Experts warn that one severe consequence could be the displacement of the original Mayan and Quintana Roo population. They fear that if investment in Tulum's surroundings is not allowed, investors might start buying land in the municipality's center, triggering gentrification.

The College of Engineers and Architects of Tulum has also raised concerns about the PDU review and citizen consultation process. Despite submitting documents with observations to SEDATU at both local and federal levels, they have yet to receive a response.