Canary Islands Film Industry Raises Alarm Over Teide Management Plan

The film industry in the Canary Islands is expressing serious concerns about the impending approval of the new Use and Management Plan (PRUG) for Teide National Park. This plan, which is on the verge of being finalized, has sparked significant debate among local stakeholders, particularly those in the audiovisual sector.

Film Sector’s Strong Opposition to Proposed Regulations

Representing a coalition of 120 companies, the Canary Islands Audiovisual Cluster has taken a firm stance against the proposed regulations outlined in the new PRUG. They argue that these regulations pose a substantial threat to the region’s burgeoning audiovisual industry. The collective is calling on local authorities to reconsider the implementation of these rules, which they fear will stifle creative endeavors and have a profoundly negative effect on one of the Archipelago’s most promising economic sectors.

The audiovisual cluster’s concerns are rooted in the belief that the new regulations will create an environment that is increasingly hostile to film production. They argue that the restrictions could lead to a significant decline in the number of projects being filmed in the region, ultimately jeopardizing jobs and economic growth within the industry.

Teide’s Potential Designation as a Tourist Sanctuary

One of the most contentious aspects of the new PRUG is the potential classification of Teide National Park as a “tourist sanctuary.” This designation would make it the most restrictive tourist area in Spain, a fact that has been corroborated by both the Cabildo de Tenerife and the Government of the Canary Islands. The implications of this classification are alarming for the audiovisual sector, which relies on the natural beauty and unique landscapes of Teide for filming.

Moreover, the audiovisual sector has raised concerns regarding the lack of transparency in the drafting process of the new PRUG. The current plan, which has been in place since 2002, is set to be replaced without what many believe to be adequate consultation or information gathering. This perceived opacity has led to widespread dissatisfaction among industry stakeholders, who feel that their voices have not been heard in the decision-making process.

Restrictions on Filming Activities: A Major Concern

The proposed restrictions on filming activities outlined in the new PRUG starkly contrast with the strategic recognition that the audiovisual industry has received from various governmental bodies, including the Canary Islands Parliament and the Cabildo de Tenerife. The new regulations are expected to impose more stringent requirements than those in the previous plan, particularly regarding permits for audiovisual productions.

Under the new guidelines, filming with small crews of up to 15 participants would be limited to just one shoot per month. For larger groups, consisting of 16 to 100 people, only one production would be allowed each quarter, effectively capping large-scale projects at a mere four per year. Additionally, the regulations stipulate that only one filming session can occur at any given time, and all shoots must be confined to areas designated for moderate and special use, which are known to offer the least protection.

In light of these challenges, the cluster of companies emphasizes that they operate as a “clean” industry, committed to environmental stewardship. They have proposed several commitments aimed at ensuring that the PRUG is modified to facilitate film production while still respecting the ecological integrity of the Teide National Park.

The audiovisual sector’s advocacy for a more balanced approach highlights the need for regulations that support both environmental protection and the growth of the film industry. Stakeholders are urging authorities to consider their proposals seriously, as they believe that a collaborative approach could yield solutions that benefit both the environment and the economy.

Key points

• The Canary Islands Audiovisual Cluster consists of 120 companies opposing the new PRUG for Teide.
• The collective believes the new regulations will have a catastrophic impact on the audiovisual industry.
• Approval of the PRUG could designate Teide as a tourist sanctuary, making it the most restrictive in Spain.
• The new plan is criticized for lacking transparency and adequate consultation during its drafting.
• Filming restrictions under the new PRUG are significantly more stringent than those in the previous plan from 2002.
• Proposed filming limits include one shoot per month for small crews and one per quarter for larger groups.
• The audiovisual sector is advocating for modifications to the PRUG to support their industry while maintaining environmental standards.