Tenerife Environmental Groups Challenge Developments on Guaza Mountain

Environmental organizations in Tenerife are preparing to file a formal complaint with the European Commission regarding two controversial developments proposed for Guaza Mountain, a protected area located in Arona, in the southern part of the island. These groups argue that permitting these projects to move forward would set a dangerous precedent for natural spaces across the Canary Islands and could jeopardize the integrity of the EU’s Natura 2000 conservation network, which is designed to protect Europe’s most important natural habitats and species.

Overview of the Proposed Developments

The developments in question, known as Edificio Gara and The Cliff, are positioned on the slopes of Montaña de Guaza, which is classified as a Natural Monument. This designation is part of the broader Natura 2000 network, aimed at preserving critical habitats and species across Europe. The projects have sparked significant controversy due to their potential impact on the local environment and wildlife.

Edificio Gara, which is being promoted by the Madrid-based real estate company Metrovacesa, recently received a notable legal endorsement. On November 14, the High Court of Justice of the Canary Islands (TSJC) ruled that an environmental impact assessment was not required for the project to obtain a municipal license. This ruling has drawn criticism, particularly from Arona Town Hall, which has expressed its intention to appeal the decision to the Spanish Supreme Court, arguing that the environmental implications of the project warrant a more thorough examination.

In contrast, the second project, The Cliff, is spearheaded by Lemwey Inversiones and has the backing of the influential Los Menceyes Group. However, this development is currently on hold due to its location within a Natura 2000 Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA). As such, it is subject to a comprehensive environmental evaluation before any further progress can be made.

Environmental Implications and Legal Challenges

The region surrounding Guaza Mountain is recognized as one of Tenerife’s most vital habitats for steppe birds, hosting a diverse array of species, including the trumpeter finch, Cory’s shearwater, Bulwer’s petrel, and the endangered osprey. Additionally, the Guaza giant lizard, another threatened species, is known to inhabit this area. The presence of these species underscores the ecological significance of the region and raises alarms about the potential consequences of the proposed developments.

Environmental advocates argue that both Edificio Gara and The Cliff violate the EU Birds and Habitats Directives, as well as the precautionary principle that is a cornerstone of European environmental policy. Their forthcoming complaint to the European Commission will call for immediate intervention to halt both developments and demand that Spanish authorities conduct a thorough environmental assessment before any construction can proceed. This proactive approach aims to safeguard the unique biodiversity of Guaza Mountain and ensure compliance with EU regulations.

Moreover, these organizations have criticized the separate processing of the two development applications, claiming that this approach obscures the cumulative impact that both projects could have on Montaña de Guaza. They express deep concern that the ongoing push for urbanization in this ecologically, geologically, and aesthetically valuable area is occurring without sufficient safeguards for the habitats and species that warranted its inclusion in the Natura 2000 network. The fragmentation of the assessment process could lead to a lack of comprehensive understanding of the environmental risks involved.

Risks Associated with Development

The environmental groups have outlined several significant risks associated with the approval of these developments. These include habitat destruction, disruption to protected bird species, increased urban pressure on the region, and the potential for irreversible damage to the volcanic escarpment of Guaza. The unique geological features of the area, combined with its rich biodiversity, make it a critical zone for conservation efforts.

In light of these concerns, the environmental organizations have pledged to continue their legal challenges against any attempts to issue building permits for areas where construction should not be considered due to the severe environmental consequences. Their commitment to protecting Guaza Mountain reflects a broader movement advocating for sustainable development practices that prioritize ecological integrity over short-term economic gains.

Key points

• Environmental organizations in Tenerife are appealing to the European Commission regarding developments on Guaza Mountain.
• The projects, Edificio Gara and The Cliff, are located in a protected area in Arona.
• Edificio Gara received legal approval without an environmental impact assessment, prompting an appeal by Arona Town Hall.
• The second project is currently on hold due to its location within a Special Protection Area for Birds.
• Environmental groups argue the developments violate EU conservation directives and threaten local wildlife.
• Concerns include habitat destruction and increased urban pressure on the region.
• The organizations plan to continue legal actions against any construction permits issued in the area.