The town isn't what it used to be, and the square is a virtually empty mess. The shopping street is still quite nice though

Actually, i remember hearing that the square was due to be demolished, no idea if that's true though. Would be best, it's an eyesore

Why did the square end up like that... lack of business ?

I can only think a downturn in visitors from the UK/Ireland as it was pretty much geared up for us lot!!

I have heard stories that the mayor of Estartit did make it harder for pubs and venues to put on offers, entertainment, etc, it seems Estartit changed it's mind as to who it wanted to attract, but i think it's kinda backfired and turned the town slightly derelict. However, there was a good bit of building work going on last year when i was there, maybe they are seeing the error of their ways.

In saying that, the only place i've seen renovated in years has been the harbour, and rumour has it those are the type of people they want to attract in, people with boats and big bucks!!!

The new Mayor of Estartit won his election by promising to bring all visitors and tourists back to the town. Since he got in power he has done the opposite. One of the problems is he stopped all caravan/camper vans parking in the town especially the seafront. This has had huge problem as estartit is one of the most northerly resorts in spain with easy access for people driving from uk/france.
The square does look run down now but is still busy in high season. There are still plenty places to eat and drink and british tourists are more than welcome from all restaurant and pub owners. There is huge amounts of building work ongoing mainly appartment blocks for private sale. The shopping street is moving more upmarket judging by some of the new shops opening every year. Estartit however is still really governed by when the castell montgri campsite opens and closes. The campsite opens on 10/5/08 and the whole of estartit will open then also. Just been in April and most places were closed monday to thursday awaiting the campsite opening. Still a lovely place to visit, beautiful safe beach, plenty of play parks for young kids, good boat trips for families, jocs amusement park with free open air stage shows pleanty places to eat drink and shop.

To be honest, I always thought the square looked run down.