I identify so much with this situation. My Dad had similar problems during his time in Spain. The fact is that planning permission granted has taken a nose dive since 2005, and it hasn't helped that there was a scandal about urban planning this year in the South East. I do think things will change soon as the Spanish economy slows, especially as a whopping 15% of GDP comes from construction (according to The Economist) and growing demand for rental properties for the youngsters, but who knows what the future holds. All I can say is that you're not the only one, and we're all rooting for you - as the Spanish would say - ánimo!