Tenerife Motor Circuit Project Faces Setback as Court Invalidates Approval

The Administrative Litigation Court in Spain has recently annulled the final approval of the modified speed track project at the Tenerife Motor Circuit, following an appeal from the Tenerife Association of Friends of Nature (ATAN). This ruling calls for an immediate cessation of construction activities at the site, marking a significant victory for environmental advocates concerned about the project’s implications.

Insights into the Court’s Ruling

On November 10, the court delivered its verdict regarding the legal challenge initiated by ATAN against a resolution from the Roads Department of the Tenerife Cabildo, which was issued in January 2023. This resolution granted final approval for the speed track located in the International Motor Park of Tenerife, situated in Granadilla. The court ruled in favor of ATAN in three out of four aspects concerning the various projects associated with the Motor Circuit, underscoring the legal complexities surrounding environmental regulations and land use in the region.

Environmental Impact Declaration Under Scrutiny

The court’s ruling, as reported by Atlántico Hoy, highlighted that the Environmental Impact Declaration (DIA) from 2011 had expired, which was a significant factor in the annulment decision. The Cabildo was obligated to demonstrate that construction activities had commenced within the validity period of the declaration. However, the judge concluded that the actions taken between August and November 2016, which included marking the land, removing protected plants, and partial land clearing, did not constitute a sufficient initiation of construction. This ruling raises questions about the adherence to environmental protocols and the responsibilities of public authorities in safeguarding natural resources.

In contrast, the judge dismissed ATAN’s claims regarding the expiration of the Territorial Action Project (PAT), clarifying that such plans possess indefinite validity and, as a public administration initiative, do not necessitate a municipal license. This distinction emphasizes the legal framework governing land use and environmental assessments, illustrating the challenges faced by environmental groups in contesting government decisions.

Implications for Protected Species and Environmental Oversight

The ruling also pointed out that the approval of the project violated the Canary Islands’ Law concerning the Catalogue of Protected Species. The Cabildo had acknowledged the existence of protected species in the area affected by the project. At the time of the appeal, there was no approved environmental monitoring plan or recent environmental assessments available, raising serious concerns about the adequacy of the oversight mechanisms in place to protect vulnerable ecosystems.

ATAN expressed frustration over the Cabildo’s decision to continue construction despite judicial challenges and the recognition of the significant impact on the territory and the island’s natural and cultural heritage. The association criticized the Cabildo for advancing the project “at full pace” to solidify its plans through completed actions, suggesting a disregard for environmental integrity and community concerns.

Furthermore, ATAN has raised concerns that the Cabildo is overlooking the potential ramifications of the project’s annulment, interpreting this as a clear indication of the representatives’ disregard for public interest and the island’s values. Records suggest that some officials within the Cabildo had previously warned that the environmental impact declaration had lapsed before the final project approval, yet these technical warnings were reportedly ignored by political leaders and members of the island evaluation committee. This situation highlights the tension between development interests and environmental stewardship, a recurring theme in many regions facing similar challenges.

In light of the court’s ruling, ATAN intends to request an immediate halt to the annulled construction activities. The organization aims to ensure that all necessary environmental assessments are conducted and that the rights of protected species are upheld, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainable development practices.

Key points

• The Administrative Litigation Court annulled the approval of the Tenerife Motor Circuit speed track project.
• The ruling was issued on November 10, following an appeal by the Tenerife Association of Friends of Nature (ATAN).
• The court sided with ATAN in three out of four rulings related to the Motor Circuit projects.
• The Environmental Impact Declaration from 2011 was deemed expired, leading to the annulment.
• The approval was found to violate the Canary Islands’ Law on the Catalogue of Protected Species.
• ATAN plans to request an immediate halt to the construction works.