Spain investigates unauthorized Katy Perry music video in protected natural area

By TERESA MEDRANO

MADRID (AP) — In her new music video, Katy Perry poses as one of thousands of tourists having the time of their lives on Spain’s Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean. But some scenes shot in a protected natural enclave could get her in trouble.

The regional government is investigating the video for her latest song “Lifetimes” because of the clips in which the 39-year-old American singer and songwriter apparently jumps and runs without permission across the dunes of the Ses Salines Natural Park, a protected area on the islands of Ibiza and Formentera.

According to local media, the controversy was sparked by images taken in the dunes of the private island of S’Espalmador, “one of the most ecologically valuable places on the islands”, and in an area cordoned off to the public with poles and ropes.

Regional authorities have opened “preliminary investigation procedures” after the production company failed to apply for the relevant permits, according to a statement released on Tuesday. The filming did not constitute an environmental offence, as this type of production can be approved with a permit, the Ministry of Natural Environment added.

Neither the production company nor Perry immediately responded to a request for comment.

The video, directed by Colombian-American photographer and director Matías Vasquez, Stillz, shows Perry sailing, swimming or clubbing in the islands, one of the most popular and visited tourist spots in the Spanish Mediterranean, especially in summer.

Perry’s new album “143” will be released on September 20th.