No Compensation for Owners of Abandoned ‘Ghost Hotel’ in Tenerife

The Santa Cruz Council has officially declared that the owners of the long-neglected hotel in Añaza, Tenerife, will not receive any compensation following its expropriation. This decision has stirred considerable controversy and concern among the nearly 900 owners, many of whom are foreign nationals, who invested in the property.

This announcement was made public in the Provincial Boletín Oficial (BOP), where the council cited the property’s failure to fulfill its social function as the primary reason for the forced expropriation. The hotel remains incomplete and lacks the necessary legal permits, rendering it a liability rather than an asset. The official valuation of the property has been set at a mere €48,000, a stark contrast to the estimated €2.3 million required for its demolition, which will be financed through public resources.

History of the ‘Ghost Hotel’

The structure, often referred to as the ‘Ghost Hotel’ due to its long-standing abandonment, is notable for its distinctive Y-shaped design and towering 22 stories. It occupies a plot of 2,350 square meters, with a built volume exceeding 40,000 square meters. Construction on the hotel began in 1973, with ambitious plans for 741 hotel rooms. However, the project was abruptly halted just two years later, in 1975, leaving behind a skeletal structure that has become a symbol of neglect.

Since its abandonment, the building has transformed into a persistent eyesore, attracting numerous complaints from local residents and officials alike. The hotel has been associated with various safety hazards and accidents, further compounding its negative impact on the community. The local populace has expressed frustration over the detrimental visual and social effects the structure has had on the surrounding area, leading to calls for action from the authorities.

Safety Issues and Legal Implications

Tragically, the abandoned hotel has been the site of several incidents, resulting in the loss of five lives. Among the victims was a 13-year-old girl who entered the premises despite numerous safety warnings in December. This heartbreaking incident has intensified public outcry and raised urgent questions about the safety of abandoned structures in urban areas.

In light of the expropriation decision, a one-month period has been established for the submission of any objections or appeals. This timeframe allows affected owners to voice their concerns regarding the council’s decision, which has sparked significant social and legal discussions. The balance between the rights of the owners and the public interest is a critical consideration in this complex situation.

The community is now grappling with the implications of this expropriation, as it raises broader questions about urban development and the management of abandoned properties. The potential for future urban development plans in the area is a topic of considerable interest, and further developments in this case are expected to attract significant attention from local media and the public.

Key points

• The Santa Cruz Council has ruled out compensation for the owners of the abandoned hotel.
• The property has been valued at €48,000, far below the estimated €2.3 million needed for demolition.
• The hotel, known for its Y-shaped design, was abandoned in 1975 after construction began in 1973.
• Five fatalities have been linked to incidents at the site, including a tragic case involving a young girl.
• A one-month period for objections or appeals to the expropriation decision has been established.
• The situation has ignited discussions about the rights of property owners versus public safety and interest.