Asodiscan Appeals for Transparency in Sunday Trading Regulations in Santa Cruz

The Canary Association of Medium and Large Distribution Enterprises, commonly referred to as Asodiscan, has reached out to the Commissioner for Transparency of the Canary Islands in a bid to address ongoing issues related to Sunday trading in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This move comes in response to the City Council’s lack of communication regarding a critical information request that has remained unanswered for over five months.

Frustration Over Inaction

Asodiscan’s concerns were brought to light by local media outlet El Día, highlighting the association’s formal request submitted on May 5. This request pertains specifically to the Tourist Zone of High Affluence (ZGAT), which was established in 2011. Currently, the ZGAT is confined to the historical center of Santa Cruz, and Asodiscan is advocating for the right to open on Sundays, akin to the operations permitted in the Central Zone of the city.

The formal request sought a complete copy of the administrative file that sanctioned the ZGAT in 2011. This file is crucial as it outlines the parameters within which commercial activities can operate on Sundays and public holidays. The defined perimeter includes Avenida de Anaga, Rambla de Santa Cruz, Avenida de las Asuncionistas, and Calle San Sebastián. Despite the significance of this request for the local retail landscape, the City Council has failed to respond, as documented in communications sent to the Commissioner for Transparency.

Raising the Stakes

On September 5, Asodiscan escalated the issue by following up with the City Council, demanding either a declaration of administrative silence or the release of the requested documents. The lack of response has prompted the association to seek intervention from the Commissioner, arguing that the failure to provide information infringes upon their legal rights and hampers their ability to advocate effectively for their interests.

Asodiscan represents a diverse array of prominent retailers, including well-known names such as Carrefour, El Corte Inglés, MediaMarkt, Ikea, Leroy Merlín, C&A, and Alcampo, along with various shopping centers like El Mueble. This collective is united in their push for equitable treatment regarding Sunday openings, asserting that such rights are essential for maintaining competitive parity with businesses operating in the Central Zone.

Upcoming Negotiations on Sunday Trading Policies

A Commerce Round Table is scheduled for November 27, where stakeholders will convene to discuss the potential extension of the ZGAT or the establishment of a new zone in Cabo Llanos, an area characterized by a high concentration of large retail outlets. Asodiscan has made it clear that if an agreement is not reached to facilitate Sunday openings under the same conditions as those in the Central Zone, they may resort to legal action to protect their interests.

This situation is not an isolated incident; the Commissioner for Transparency has previously intervened in Santa Cruz on behalf of other community groups, such as the El Perenquén Neighbours’ Association, which raised concerns regarding a bicycle lane project. While the local government has denied any neglect of requests, these instances underscore ongoing challenges related to communication and transparency within municipal operations.

Founded in 1986, Asodiscan holds the distinction of being the oldest sectoral trade association in the Canary Islands. The organization emphasizes that its interest in the ZGAT file is not only legitimate but also vital, as it directly impacts its members and the broader trade model in the region. Asodiscan underscores the importance of being actively involved in discussions concerning the declaration, extension, and duration of Tourist Zones of High Affluence as sanctioned by local authorities.

Key points

• Asodiscan has requested the intervention of the Commissioner for Transparency due to a lack of response from the City Council.
• The request pertains to the Tourist Zone of High Affluence (ZGAT) established in 2011.
• Asodiscan submitted a formal request for information on May 5, which has gone unanswered for over five months.
• The association represents major retailers and is advocating for Sunday trading rights similar to those in the Central Zone.
• A Commerce Round Table is set for November 27 to discuss potential changes to the ZGAT.
• Asodiscan may consider legal action if their demands for equal treatment are not met.
• The association has a long history, being the oldest trade group in the Canary Islands, established in 1986.