Arona’s Local Government Sets New Benchmark in Housing Approvals

This week, the local government of Arona has made significant strides in housing development by approving eight major work licence applications, which will affect a total of 113 homes. This decision marks a record achievement for the municipality, bringing the total number of residential projects approved in the past two months to over 200. The rapid pace of approvals reflects a renewed focus on addressing the housing needs of the community and revitalizing the local economy.

Among the notable projects receiving approval are enhancements to two buildings located in Cabo Blanco, which will include 68 flats. Additionally, a new construction project in Cho-Parque de La Reina is set to provide 30 residences. Further developments in Cabo Blanco will see the addition of a dozen more homes, which will involve the transfer of public land for this purpose. The plans also encompass the construction of four terraced houses in Montaña Chica (Los Cristianos) and various single-family homes, along with supplementary facilities on agricultural estates. A project on Avenida Suecia in Los Cristianos has also been greenlit, featuring ten studios along with commercial and professional spaces.

Reassessing Urban Planning: A Shift in Leadership

The current governing body has expressed strong criticism towards the previous administration’s handling of urban planning, describing the situation as “particularly grave.” They attribute the backlog of applications and the near-total paralysis of licensing to a lack of initiative from the former councillor and the negligence of the PSOE during its previous term. The current team, led by Fátima Lemes, highlighted that within just three months of the new councillor, Javier Baute, taking office, five licences were approved, equaling the total number from the past five years. This reflects the significant blockage the municipality faced and the efforts made to restore normal administrative functions.

The shift in leadership has brought about a renewed sense of urgency and purpose. The new administration is not only focused on clearing the backlog but also on establishing a more efficient and transparent process for future applications. This change is crucial for fostering trust among residents and developers alike, ensuring that the community’s housing needs are met in a timely manner.

Prioritizing Sustainable Development and Community Needs

Mayor Fátima Lemes has reiterated the administration’s commitment to advancing the municipality in line with the needs of its residents. She stated that the government is focused on promoting housing development, attracting private investment, and fostering economic activity linked to the sector. Lemes emphasized that streamlining urban processing not only expedites applications but also ensures legal security, increases opportunities, and supports responsible territorial planning. The aim is to create a more accessible Arona that meets the genuine needs of its community.

In her remarks, Lemes highlighted the importance of sustainable development, which balances the need for new housing with the preservation of Arona’s unique character and environment. This approach is designed to create a vibrant community where residents can thrive, and businesses can flourish, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of the municipality.

Strategic Urban Planning Initiatives

Javier Baute, the Urban Planning councillor, has outlined the department’s priorities, which include establishing order, ensuring effective coordination, and maintaining consistent daily operations. He commended the efforts of the staff in the Urban Planning department and noted that the recent approval of over 120 homes signifies visible change. Baute aims to continue reducing processing times, attract further investment, and provide clear, functional urban planning that aligns with the social and economic realities of Arona.

Baute’s vision for the Urban Planning department extends beyond mere approvals; it encompasses a holistic approach to urban development that considers the long-term implications of each project. By fostering collaboration between various stakeholders, including residents, developers, and local businesses, the department aims to create a cohesive and sustainable urban environment.

Long-term Vision for Housing Development

Baute also emphasized that the recent advancements are not isolated events but part of a broader strategy aimed at reactivating land, encouraging responsible construction, and expanding residential offerings across various areas in Arona. This strategy is designed to ensure that housing developments are not only plentiful but also of high quality, catering to the diverse needs of the community.

As part of this long-term vision, the administration is exploring innovative solutions to address the housing crisis, including partnerships with private developers and incentives for sustainable building practices. This proactive approach is expected to yield significant benefits for the community, enhancing the quality of life for residents and attracting new families and businesses to the area.

Community-Centric Approvals Beyond Housing

In addition to housing initiatives, the local government has also approved plans for commercial premises and sports facilities, including the construction of four paddle courts. The administration concluded that the Arona City Council is making significant progress in revitalizing residential development within the municipality. These additional projects are crucial for fostering a sense of community and providing residents with the amenities they need to lead active, fulfilling lives.

The integration of commercial and recreational spaces alongside residential developments is a key aspect of the administration’s strategy. By creating mixed-use environments, the government aims to enhance the overall appeal of Arona, making it a more attractive destination for both residents and visitors.

Key points

• Arona’s local government approved eight major work licence applications affecting 113 homes.
• This brings the total number of approved residences to over 200 in the past two months.
• Projects include enhancements to buildings in Cabo Blanco and new constructions in Cho-Parque de La Reina.
• The current administration criticized the previous management for causing a backlog in licensing.
• Mayor Fátima Lemes emphasized the commitment to sustainable local development and housing creation.
• Urban Planning councillor Javier Baute aims to improve processing times and attract investment.
• Additional approvals include commercial premises and sports facilities.