Hotels: conversions to be made easier
The regulations for the conversion of hotels outside of building zones are to be relaxed. The National Council has referred a corresponding motion from the Council of States to the Federal Council.
According to the motion, the provisions for buildings outside the building zones should be adapted so that a hotel can be extended in line with current requirements as part of a conversion or reconstruction.
The proponents had argued that hotels were facing increasing difficulties, particularly in mountain regions. The provisions of spatial planning law should therefore be relaxed so that moderate tourism development is possible. It was a matter of individual cases.
Opponents warned against relaxing the rules, as this would contribute to creeping urban sprawl. The exemptions are already generous.
The large chamber approved the proposal by 126 votes to 54. The Federal Council had also spoken out in favor; it wants to include the issue in the planned revision of the Spatial Planning Act. (ah/sda)
