Environmental Activists Rally Against Meliá’s Hotel Development in Tenerife

On Thursday, a coalition of five environmental organizations came together to voice their strong opposition to the hotel chain Meliá’s plans to acquire the La Tejita hotel in Granadilla de Abona. This move has sparked significant concern among local activists, who argue that the project poses a serious threat to the delicate ecosystem of the region.

Demonstration in the Heart of Santa Cruz

The protest took place outside the Inside by Meliá hotel in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where activists gathered to display a large banner that underscored their environmental concerns regarding the proposed acquisition. Eustaquio Villalba, a representative from the Asociación Tinerfeña de Amigos de la Naturaleza (ATAN), expressed the group’s discontent, stating, “We have displayed this banner to denounce that an important chain like Meliá wants to take on a hotel that is unjustifiable from an environmental standpoint.” The demonstration attracted the attention of passersby, many of whom stopped to learn more about the activists’ cause.

Concerns Over Environmental Impact and Development Practices

Villalba further elaborated on the potential consequences of Meliá’s plans, arguing that the acquisition of the under-construction hotel would only serve to exacerbate a development model that is already detrimental to the island’s environment. He pointed out that local authorities have been complicit in permitting such developments, despite numerous complaints from conservation groups. The environmentalists collectively condemned the idea of operating a hotel that threatens the integrity of Tenerife’s most iconic beach. They asserted that if Meliá proceeds with its plans, it will face significant backlash from the local community, which is increasingly aware of the environmental stakes involved.

In addition to the immediate environmental concerns, activists highlighted the broader implications of such developments on the island’s tourism model. They argue that prioritizing short-term economic gains over long-term ecological sustainability could lead to irreversible damage to Tenerife’s natural beauty and biodiversity. The activists emphasized that the island’s unique ecosystems are not only vital for local wildlife but also serve as a significant draw for tourists seeking unspoiled landscapes.

Legal Challenges and Ongoing Negotiations

The coalition of environmental groups has raised alarms about Meliá’s ongoing negotiations to manage the hotel, which has yet to secure any commitments from other hotel chains. They warned that Meliá’s reputation could suffer as news of their involvement spreads, potentially deterring environmentally conscious travelers. The groups have indicated that they will pursue legal action against the hotel until it is demolished and the ecosystem is restored to its natural state. Ana Sabin, a spokesperson for Salvar La Tejita, mentioned that a court order for a complete suspension of construction could be imminent, as the project’s license does not comply with urban planning regulations.

Sabin noted that the development has faced multiple complaints, including a significant one directed to the European Union, due to its failure to adhere to environmental impact directives. She highlighted the adverse effects on the nesting habits of the endangered Kentish plover, a species that relies on the coastal habitats that are now under threat. Additionally, she criticized the destruction of dunes, which have been flattened by construction machinery, and raised concerns about encroachment into public maritime-terrestrial domains. Sabin expressed confidence that the numerous violations would ultimately lead to the invalidation of the hotel’s license, allowing for the restoration of the affected areas.

The coalition opposing Meliá’s plans includes a diverse array of organizations dedicated to environmental conservation. These groups are not only focused on halting the hotel development but are also advocating for a more sustainable approach to tourism that respects and preserves the natural environment. The coalition comprises Fundación Telesforo Bravo-Telesforo Bravo y Juan Coello, Ben Magec, Ecologistas en Acción, ATAN, Asamblea en Defensa de Nuestra Tierra (ADNT), Salvar La Tejita, and Asociación Abeque, all of which are united in their mission to protect Tenerife’s unique ecosystems.

Key points

• Five environmental groups protested against Meliá’s acquisition of La Tejita hotel.
• The protest occurred outside the Inside by Meliá hotel in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Eustaquio Villalba criticized the environmental implications of the hotel acquisition.
• Concerns were raised about the development model overwhelming the island.
• Legal action is being pursued to halt construction and restore the ecosystem.
• Construction has reportedly violated urban planning laws and environmental directives.
• The coalition includes multiple environmental organizations advocating for conservation.