Concerns Rise Over Proposed Developments at Montaña de Guaza in Tenerife

Recent proposals for real estate developments on the slopes of Montaña de Guaza in Palm-Mar, Tenerife, have sparked significant concern among local residents and environmental advocates.

Developers Seek Approval for Controversial Projects

Two prominent real estate companies, Metrovacesa and Lemwey Inversiones, are pursuing permissions to construct residential buildings, garages, and commercial spaces in an area recognized as a Natural Monument for over two decades. The plots in question, numbered 15-2 and 17, are situated within the EU-designated Natura 2000 network and a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA).

The Canary Islands Government established specific conservation regulations for Montaña de Guaza in 2008, recognizing its geological, historical, and environmental significance. This region is home to several endangered species, including the Tenerife giant lizard and the osprey, as well as the specially protected plant viborina triste, which previously halted construction on another project in Adeje.

Impact on Local Community and Tourism

The proposed developments are located along Avenida del Palm-Mar, an area that has experienced a surge in tourism-related activities. Currently, over half of Palm-Mar’s residents are foreigners, with a notable presence of Belgians and Germans among them.

In 2024, Arona is expected to welcome approximately 1.3 million tourists, making it the second most visited municipality in Tenerife, nearly matching the island’s total population of just over one million.

Details of the Proposed Developments

Metrovacesa’s project, known as ‘Gara,’ aims to construct a residential block comprising 28 homes along with four commercial units, storage areas, garages, and a communal pool. This development spans 3,200 square meters and is located near the coast, partially within the boundaries of the protected natural area and adjacent to the Teno-Rasca Special Conservation Zone.

Technical documents submitted by the developer include plans to stabilize the mountainside with a 7-meter dynamic barrier and implement concrete reinforcements to mitigate landslide risks. However, Arona Council has stated that the license for this project remains unresolved and is currently under judicial review, emphasizing that an environmental assessment is necessary due to the plot’s location within Natura 2000.

Meanwhile, Lemwey Inversiones is working on a project called ‘The Cliff,’ which also seeks to build a residential block with garages. Despite promotional efforts on social media, reports indicated that marketing had been paused due to the absence of necessary permits.

Similar to the Gara project, The Cliff involves plans for significant alterations to the hillside, including earthworks and hydraulic interventions to redirect a natural ravine that traverses the site. Arona Council has placed this application on hold until an environmental report is submitted.

Concerns Over Landslide Risks

In July 2025, the Tenerife Cabildo ordered the closure of land surrounding one of the proposed plots due to potential rockfall risks from Montaña de Guaza. While parts of the seafront promenade remain closed, residents have reported no landslides following Storm Claudia.

Local residents express concerns that citing landslide risks as a reason for modifying the slope could ultimately facilitate construction on this protected natural landmark. Arona Council has confirmed that a study has identified a landslide risk, leading to the establishment of a safety cordon in Palm-Mar. Additionally, a request has been made for a license to install protective mesh, with the Council seeking an assessment from the Cabildo’s environmental department to determine if this work requires an environmental evaluation due to its location within Natura 2000.

Key points

• Metrovacesa and Lemwey Inversiones are seeking permissions for developments on Montaña de Guaza.
• The area is a protected Natural Monument and part of the Natura 2000 network.
• Both projects are under scrutiny due to environmental concerns and potential landslide risks.
• Over 51% of Palm-Mar’s residents are foreigners, with a significant number of Belgians and Germans.
• Arona is projected to receive 1.3 million tourists in 2024.
• Environmental assessments are currently being debated in court regarding the proposed developments.
• The Tenerife Cabildo has raised concerns about rockfall risks in the area.