Adeje’s Mayor, José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga (PSOE), stated on Friday that “there is no other direction than to continue with the Cuna del Alma project”, after meeting with the Canary Islands Executive and the Cabildo to discuss this tourist urban development. The councillor believes it is “a promising project” that will increase the public space in the area, enhance beach access, and significantly reduce occupancy standards. Therefore, “it must move forward, meeting all the required criteria, from urban planning to environmental regulations.”
Rodríguez Fraga recounted the history of the project, stating that it has had legal standing since 1982 and its partial plan was approved in 1998. However, 16 years later, in 2014, a “downward modification” was initiated to expand public areas and reduce construction possibilities.
“In 2018, the modification of the plan was finally approved, and in 2022, the urbanization works were initiated. It has been a legally compliant process, with all administrative procedures in place,” he explained.
He emphasized that “the crucial aspect” is that Cuna del Alma has successfully completed all necessary procedures over the past 30 years and the Council’s stance is to continue on this path, ruling out the land acquisition solution: “That would not be viable, as we would have to resort to a competitive bidding process.”
The Mayor justified this decision by highlighting that the City Council is not financially equipped to cover the substantial cost and the “grave responsibility” that halting the project would entail. Stalling it would incur costs of “200 million Euros, and if purchase were considered, I would opt for an outdated property and invest in strategies that enhance competitiveness.”
He added that Cuna del Alma is currently in the urbanization phase, not possessing a building permit but meeting the necessary tourism qualifications. The project aims to transform the land into a developed plot.
Rodríguez Fraga suggested a review of the tourism model and diversification of the economy, acknowledging existing issues but emphasizing that tourism remains a pivotal sector. He cautioned against giving in to the demands made during the demonstrations on April 20, some of which called for the suspension of the Cuna del Alma project.
He advocated for calm reflection and evaluation of the consequences, aligning with the concerns expressed by citizens on April 20 regarding infrastructural development, housing availability, mobility, and the economic status of the Canary Islands.
Regarding his party colleague and Mayor of Granadilla, Jennifer Miranda (PSOE), who did not participate in the meeting with the Canary Islands Government to discuss the La Tejita hotel, Rodríguez Fraga expressed his respect for her decision, recognising the distinct issues faced by different municipalities, but stressed that political assessments should remain separate from institutional relationships.
The Authority over Cuna del Alma and La Tejita Lies with Local Councils
While the Canarian Government has the authority to halt these projects, Clavijo has underscored the role of local councils as the key decision-makers.The Government of the Canary Islands Holds Meeting with Local Mayors
In a recent announcement, the president of the Government of the Canary Islands revealed plans to meet with the mayor of Adeje, José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga (PSOE), and the mayor of Granadilla, Jennifer Miranda (PSOE). However, the latter did not attend the meeting, calling it a “political gesture.”
The meeting aimed to discuss the tourism projects of Cuna del Alma and La Tejita, allowing the municipalities to voice their plans and seek solutions. The government expressed readiness to support and assist in their endeavours.
The Government acknowledged limitations in intervening due to municipal licenses and planning responsibilities. Regarding Cuna del Alma, two years ago, a report highlighted a significant violation by damaging an archaeological site. The Canary Islands Government, under the General Directorate of Heritage, initiated a sanction process, which has now expired under the new leadership of Clavijo.
