Following several years of diligent efforts by the local government (PSOE) to initiate the drafting of the project and numerous discussions with higher authorities in pursuit of funding, the construction of the paragliding track is now a tangible reality that will enable El Tanque to broaden its tourist offerings next year.
The facility is set to be established near the Lomo Molino viewpoint, on land that has remained vacant for an extended period, previously utilised for the sport in an unsafe manner, as highlighted yesterday by the mayor, Esther Morales. She affirms that the facility will be situated in a part of the municipality renowned for its stunning views.
The contract for construction has recently been awarded to the company Sermarther Scon, with a budget of 266,226 euros and an anticipated completion time of six months. However, the company has proposed a reduction of this period to five months “as an improvement,” according to the mayor.
The project entails modifying the land located to the north of the viewpoint building to ensure that paragliding takeoff activities can be conducted safely in that area. The mayor elaborates that the current access to the Lomo Molino building will be reconfigured to enable wheeled entry at the door, thus creating an accessible space for individuals with reduced mobility and additionally facilitating the delivery of products to the restaurant.
This initiative is part of a funding call for projects under the Tourism Resilience Strategy in the Canary Islands, occurring within a programme of actions involving local entities in tourism infrastructure, supported by the European Union, wherein the municipality of El Tanque secured a grant of 297,146 euros.
With the establishment of this track, “the activity in the town and surrounding areas will be revitalised, as it complements the restaurant service provided at the viewpoint, introduces a new sporting option in a region with significant tourist potential, and enhances the social and economic contributions of tourism to the municipality,” states Esther Morales.
