Residents in El Médano are opposing Granadilla de Abona’s plan to build two beach bars on El Cabezo and La Jaquita beaches. The Barquera Neighbourhood Platform, supported by the Save La Tejita group and the Tenerife Association of Nature Friends (ATAN), argues that this development privatises public coastal land without addressing any genuine need for social improvement.
The groups assert that the coastal area is already at capacity due to “hyper-tourism.” Locals have reported issues such as parking congestion, litter accumulation, noise increase, recurrent water pollution incidents, and the displacement of residents due to holiday rentals. They note, “A crowded town doesn’t need more pressure; it needs relief.”
Their objection highlights legal concerns, citing a violation of the Coastal Law, which states public land can only be used for purposes that cannot be located elsewhere. They point out that over ten established hospitality venues nearby could easily accommodate demand. Previous rulings from the National Court and the Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands have established that commercial convenience is not a valid reason for exceptional coastal occupation. The platform believes the proposal is “an infrastructure the community hasn’t requested, doesn’t need, and which is clearly unfeasible under coastal and environmental laws.”
The situation is further complicated at El Cabezo beach by a directive from the General Directorate of Coasts issued in February 2023. It mandates the demolition of an existing car park built on the beach, requiring the area to be restored to its natural state.
Additionally, the objection points out a significant failure in ecological protection, as the proposal lacks essential assessments regarding its impact on the Natura 2000 network. The planned sites are adjacent to the Sebadales del Sur Special Conservation Area, vital for bird reproduction and dispersal. El Cabezo also contains fragile mobile dune habitats with vulnerable plant species.
Opponents reference poor past experiences with similar beach structures. They claim that previous kiosks on these beaches evolved into bars with music and events, violating their permits and local noise regulations. This history suggests that economic pressures may lead operators to deviate from their original purpose, adversely affecting residents’ quality of life.
In light of these concerns, the Barquera Neighbourhood Platform demands the Granadilla de Abona Town Council and the General Directorate of Coasts withdraw both proposals. They are asking local authorities to explain the decision to dedicate technical and financial resources to private hospitality on the coastline instead of addressing the community’s basic social and cultural needs. They also call for a genuine citizen participation process to ensure local voices are heard in future decisions, aiming to restore public access to the beaches and enhance the degraded coastal environment while prioritising legal compliance and local welfare.
