Ecologists Celebrate Closure of Private Parking at El Bollullo Beach Following Environmental Concerns

On Thursday, the private parking areas at El Bollullo Beach in La Orotava, Tenerife, were officially closed, a decision that has been met with enthusiasm from local ecologists. This closure is viewed as a pivotal moment for the preservation of one of the Canary Islands’ most cherished natural landscapes.

Positive Reactions from Environmental Advocates

The Ecologist Coordinator El Rincón expressed satisfaction with the closure of the two remaining private parking spaces at the Bollullo restaurant, which overlooks one of the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands. This action marks a significant step in addressing the environmental issues that have plagued the area since 2017, when ownership changes led to increased construction and activities detrimental to the beach’s ecosystem.

In their statement, the ecologists not only welcomed the closure but also criticized the previous business initiatives that they believe contributed to the deterioration of El Bollullo Beach. They pointed out that these developments have had a serious environmental and social impact over the past several years, leading to increased pollution and habitat destruction. The closure is seen as a necessary measure to restore the beach’s natural beauty and ecological integrity.

Enhancing Accessibility Through Strategic Planning

Rather than perceiving the closure as a hindrance to beach access, the ecologists see it as a chance to implement the Mobility Plan proposed by the El Rincón Consortium. This plan, which was developed with input from local residents and stakeholders, aims to enhance pedestrian access and improve traffic management, including both private and public transport options. The vision is to create a more sustainable and user-friendly environment for both locals and tourists.

The plan emphasizes the need to limit vehicle access for locals and farmers on secondary roads and proposes establishing a bus service that connects existing municipal parking areas to El Bollullo Beach. This initiative is expected to facilitate easier access for visitors while reducing the environmental footprint associated with car travel. By prioritizing public transport and pedestrian pathways, the ecologists hope to foster a more harmonious relationship between human activity and the natural landscape.

Addressing Legal and Environmental Challenges

The Coordinator refrained from discussing specific illegal activities associated with the previous developments, noting that many of these issues have already been addressed through municipal resolutions and legal rulings. However, they highlighted that concerns regarding these illegalities have been raised repeatedly since 2018, with numerous complaints submitted to various authorities, including the City Council and the Environmental Protection Agency. The persistence of these issues underscores the ongoing struggle between development and conservation in the region.

Ecologists criticized the local government for allowing these activities to continue for years despite being aware of their illegality and the negative consequences for the environment. They noted that it was only after a criminal ruling in October 2024 that the municipality began taking steps to halt the illegal operations at the restaurant and parking facilities. This delay in action has raised questions about the effectiveness of local governance in protecting vital natural resources.

Furthermore, the ecologists pointed out that the business initiatives at El Bollullo Beach have led to additional constructions and activities that have exacerbated environmental degradation and overcrowding in the area. They continue to advocate for the protection of this vital natural space, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent future harm. The closure of the parking facilities is a step in the right direction, but it is clear that ongoing vigilance and activism will be necessary to ensure the long-term health of El Bollullo Beach.

Key points

• The private parking areas at El Bollullo Beach were closed on Thursday.
• Ecologists have expressed their approval of this decision, citing environmental concerns.
• The closure is seen as an opportunity to implement a Mobility Plan for improved access.
• Concerns about illegal activities related to the beach’s development have been raised since 2018.
• The local government has faced criticism for allowing detrimental activities to persist.
• The criminal ruling in October 2024 prompted administrative actions to cease illegal operations.