SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE December 8 (EUROPA PRESS) –
The Cabildo of Tenerife is set to commence the restoration works of the Teno Lighthouse in January, along with enhancements to its access routes, designated parking for authorised vehicles, and a turnaround area.
This initiative involves an investment of 1,646,651.60 euros, funded by the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, which is backed by the European Union-Next Generation EU, with a project timeline of 10 months.
The president of the Cabildo of Tenerife, Rosa Dávila, remarks in a statement that “this project holds significant interest for everyone, as it not only aims to restore a portion of our heritage but will also serve the community.”
In this context, she notes that “the Interpretation Centre will be equipped with essential services to highlight the cultural and social values of Teno Rural Park, transforming the Lighthouse into a local economic centre.”
The Minister of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security and Emergencies, Blanca Pérez, elaborates that the rehabilitation of the lighthouse forms a crucial part of the projects within Teno Rural Park.
“This initiative is designed to not only preserve such an iconic location but also to lessen the ecological impact of tourism, alongside engaging the local community and the tourist sector of Isla Baja in sustainable development from environmental, social, and economic perspectives,” she states.
Mayor of Buenavista, Eva García, emphasises that “for the municipality, the upcoming works represent a tremendous opportunity, as the installation of this visitor centre will ensure services in the area and enhance efforts in raising awareness, research, and promoting the natural and scenic values of Punta de Teno and the entire Teno Massif.”
The restoration of the historic lighthouse is supported by a collaboration agreement forged between the Buenavista del Norte City Council, which currently manages the Port Authority, and the Tenerife Council, involving coordinated efforts between the sectors of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Safety and Emergencies, and Tourism.
The Teno Lighthouse will be furnished with crucial services to accentuate the cultural and social merits of Teno Rural Park.
Consequently, plans are in place to supply water and electricity to the premises, modify the interior to accommodate a café or restaurant as necessary, and construct restrooms located below ground level alongside a storage area.
Concurrently, designated parking for authorised vehicles will be arranged, a turning area will be established, and access points will be updated to enhance public transport facilities and ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike.
OUT OF SERVICE SINCE 1978
The works will proceed concurrently and also include actions to enhance the natural surroundings and reduce the construction impact.
Both the Cabildo and Buenavista City Council have cooperated to ensure that the rehabilitation of the lighthouse and the surrounding works are undertaken simultaneously, with a projected duration of 10 months.
During this period, access to Punta de Teno will be restricted for road traffic both day and night, except for authorised vehicles and public transportation provided by the Titsa company during designated times and days.
The former Teno Lighthouse ceased operations many years ago after its original light source was sold in 1978, replaced by a tower equipped with more advanced beacons to aid navigation.
The initial structure, built in 1897, remains in excellent overall condition and is catalogued in the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports’ Register of Lighthouses with Heritage Value in Spain.
Furthermore, it possesses significant value given its relevance to navigation, its distinctive architectural style, existing technology, and its potential for future use.
