Ayuso's Madrid penthouse can't be an office but taxpayers are paying for it

Ayuso's penthouse that can't be an office but we're all paying for

The Comunidad de Madrid (Madrid regional government) bought a multimillion-euro penthouse in Chamberí to use as Isabel Díaz Ayuso's "temporary office". The problem: city regulations prohibit a ninth floor in a residential building from being used for public facilities. It can only be housing. The property, located opposite the home of the regional president's mother, includes a terrace and, according to critics, is destined to become her residence once she leaves office.

A privately owned love nest for the president

The comparison with the Ábalos case — who only rented — was not long in coming: "An owned love nest >>>>> a rented one". With irony, critics point out that the penthouse has a nice terrace for "having a few beers in summer". The exact cost has not been disclosed, but the figure runs into the millions. Meanwhile, Madrid residents are paying the bill.

The zoning loophole that invalidates it

Madrid City Council regulations classify that ninth floor in a residential block in Chamberí as housing. It is prohibited to use it for administrative or public purposes. Legally, it is a private residence. Defenders of the deal claim it is a space for discreet meetings, but the law leaves no room for that.

Why does the Comunidad de Madrid need a luxury apartment in Chamberí when it has offices all over the city? The question remains open. Who will end up living there is the unknown that closes this chapter of Madrid's political chronicle.