The Cabildo of Tenerife will commence the renovation works on the Teno Lighthouse in January. This initiative encompasses enhancements to access routes, parking facilities for authorised vehicles, and a turning area, costing 1,646,651.60 euros. The funding is sourced from the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, supported by the European Union’s Next Generation EU, with an expected completion timeframe of ten months. Throughout this period, access to Punta de Teno will be restricted to road traffic both day and night, except for authorised vehicles and public transport operated by the Titsa company during specified hours and days.
Consequently, plans include providing water and electricity services throughout the facility, as well as modifying the flooring of the premises to accommodate either a café or restaurant based on requirements, alongside restrooms located below ground level adjacent to a storage area.
“This project is of significant interest for everyone, as it will not only restore part of our heritage but will also serve the public,” stated Rosa Dávila, the president of the island corporation. He also noted, “The Interpretation Centre will be equipped with the essential services to emphasise the cultural and social values of the Teno Rural Park, transforming the Lighthouse into a local economic centre.”
Blanca Pérez, the Minister of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security and Emergencies, explains that the lighthouse’s refurbishment is a vital endeavour within the Teno Rural Park initiatives. “This project aims to conserve this iconic location, reduce the ecological footprint of tourism, and foster the involvement of both the community and the tourism sector in Isla Baja towards sustainable development from environmental, social, and economic perspectives,” she commented.
Additionally, the mayor of Buenavista, Eva García, emphasises that “the upcoming renovations represent a tremendous opportunity for the municipality, ensuring that services in the area are enhanced through this visitor centre while also intensifying efforts to raise awareness, study, and disseminate the natural and landscape values of Punta de Teno and the entire Teno Massif.”
The restoration of the historic lighthouse is supported by a collaboration agreement established between the Buenavista del Norte City Council, the current concessionaire for the Port Authority, and the Tenerife Council, involving coordinated efforts across the Natural Environment, Sustainability, Safety and Emergencies, and Tourism departments.
In conjunction with this initiative, provisions will be made for authorised vehicle parking, creating a turning area and renewing access routes, thereby enhancing public transport and the safety of residents and visitors alike. The renovations will proceed concurrently with efforts to beautify the natural surroundings and reduce the environmental impact of the work.
The former Teno Lighthouse ceased operations decades ago after the original luminaire was decommissioned in 1978, replaced by a tower equipped with more advanced lighting to aid navigation. The original structure, dating back to 1897, remains in remarkably good condition and is recorded in the Catalague of Lighthouses with Heritage Value in Spain, maintained by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports. It also holds substantial significance due to its role in navigation support, its distinctive architectural style, existing technology, and its future potential.
