One of the viewing platforms on Palma Cathedral's steps is at risk of collapse, this particular area having been closed to the public. Cracks now require a project of "extensive intervention", according to a technical report, which will include "controlled partial demolition of the most affected sections".
Palma Town Hall says this will allow for "subsequent reconstruction" that keeps faith with the Cathedral's history and for "structural and functional stability". "This demolition is not viewed as a loss of heritage, but rather as a necessary step within a comprehensive restoration process designed to ensure the survival of the entire structure."
During a site visit in February, movement on the right side of the steps was detected. This appears to have been caused by significant water leakage, which created a void of approximately five cubic metres beneath steps used by a large number of tourists every day.
The inspection highlighted "the severity of the observed structural issues". It was then discovered that the viewing platform was at imminent risk of collapse. In fact, a collapse occurred soon after the removal of the walling that had been blocking the area. The joists were severely corroded, necessitating urgent action. "This preventive measure was taken to avoid compromising the safety of the large number of people who use the steps."
The rehabilitation project will also include the installation of drainage and water-evacuation systems to prevent future structural issues.
At the most recent meeting of the Historic Centre Commission, representatives from the ARCA heritage association and the PSOE opposition criticised the lack of action to repair the steps. They had been urging an assessment of the condition of the steps for months. Yet it was only some two weeks ago that this assessment was made.