Residents of Cho-Parque la Reina in Arona Confront Urban Planning Challenges

In the locality of Cho-Parque la Reina, nestled in the picturesque region of Arona, Tenerife, residents are facing profound urban planning challenges that have left many unable to construct their homes. This situation has not only stalled personal dreams but has also raised significant concerns about the governance and management of urban development in the area.

Historical Context of Development in Cho-Parque la Reina

The development of Cho-Parque la Reina traces back to the 1970s and 1980s, a time when Cañadablanca SA initiated the Partial Plan El Cho 2. This ambitious project aimed to create a thriving community, and it was later taken over by Gestur, which completed the development and sold the individual plots to eager buyers. For many years, the Arona Council actively issued building permits, provided essential municipal services, and maintained the streets, fostering a sense of progress and community. However, the council never formally accepted the development from Gestur, citing the company’s failure to meet the legal obligation of transferring 10% of the land to the municipality as the primary reason.

Suspension of Building Permits: A Turning Point

Approximately seven years ago, the Arona Council made the controversial decision to halt the issuance of building permits, a move that has left around thirty residents in a state of uncertainty regarding their property rights and construction plans. This abrupt change has created a ripple effect of distress among homeowners who had invested their savings and hopes into building their dream homes. Despite the council’s attempts to address the situation, including commissioning a legal opinion from the University of La Laguna, no resolution has been reached. The report, which could potentially clarify the legal standing of the development, remains unpaid and unused, further complicating the residents’ plight.

Personal Accounts from Affected Residents

Many residents have shared their distressing experiences as they navigate this complex situation. Manuel Fernández, who purchased two plots in 2015, managed to obtain a building permit for one but faced financial difficulties that halted construction. When he attempted to resume work, he discovered that his permit had expired, leaving his plot in disarray and becoming a dumping ground. He estimates that clearing the debris will cost him between two to three thousand euros, and he struggles to find buyers for his land, which is now deemed ineligible for construction.

Sita and José Manuel, an elderly couple who bought land in 2019 for their son to build a home, express their frustration over the toll this situation has taken on their health. They had prepared an architectural project that met all municipal requirements, but the necessary license was never granted. Sita recalls being misled by a worker who suggested that permits were being issued more quickly, which turned out to be false. The emotional and physical strain of this situation has been overwhelming for them.

Francisco Reyes, who invested his savings in a plot in 2012, feels disillusioned as he watches his dream of building a home slip away. He and his wife had hoped to construct a multi-storey house, but after years of waiting, they now view the plot merely as a means to recover their investment. He expresses feelings of being scammed, as he has done everything required of him yet sees no progress. The frustration of being caught in this bureaucratic limbo weighs heavily on him.

Maria del Mar Baute Díaz, who is 59 years old, has lived with her father since purchasing her plot in 2002. She refrained from applying for a permit upon learning about the ongoing issues from other residents. Maria wishes to build her home and believes the council should utilize the legal reports available to address the situation and alleviate the housing crisis. Her desire for a stable home reflects the broader aspirations of the community.

Ulises Bendala, another affected resident, shares his feelings of living in limbo as he awaits resolution. The ongoing uncertainty has left many residents feeling frustrated and helpless, as they continue to deal with the implications of halted urban development. The emotional toll of this situation is palpable, as dreams of homeownership are overshadowed by bureaucratic hurdles and unresolved legalities.

Key points

• Residents in Cho-Parque la Reina, Arona, are unable to build homes due to a lack of building permits.
• The area was developed in the 1970s and 1980s by Cañadablanca SA and later Gestur.
• The Arona Council ceased issuing permits about seven years ago, citing legal issues with the development.
• Attempts to resolve the situation have included a legal opinion from the University of La Laguna, which remains unused.
• Many residents report significant personal and financial distress due to the ongoing permit issues.
• Residents express feelings of frustration and helplessness as they await a resolution.