The Cabildo has declared that rehabilitation work on the Teno lighthouse will commence in January 2025, which will also involve enhancements to its accessibility, provision of parking for authorised vehicles, and the creation of a turning area. This project entails an investment of 1,646,651 euros, supported by European Next Generation funds, and is expected to take 10 months to complete.
The president of the Cabildo, Rosa Dávila, stated, “This is a project of significant interest to everyone, as we are not only going to restore a part of our heritage, but we will also make it available to the public.” She further remarked that the planned “Interpretation Centre will offer the necessary facilities to showcase the cultural and social values of the Teno Rural Park and will transform the lighthouse into a local economic hub.”
The Minister of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security and Emergencies, Blanca Pérez, clarified that “the restoration of the lighthouse is a crucial project included within the Teno Rural Park initiatives. This effort aims not only to preserve such an iconic site but also to lessen the ecological footprint of tourism while encouraging the involvement of the local community and the tourism sector of Isla Baja in their quest for sustainable development.”
Meanwhile, the mayor of Buenavista, Eva García, emphasised that “for the municipality, the upcoming works represent a tremendous opportunity, as the establishment of this visitor centre guarantees services in the area and enhances efforts to raise awareness, study, and promote the natural and scenic values of this location, particularly Punta de Teno and the entire Teno Massif.”
Improvements
The renovation of the historic lighthouse is encompassed by a partnership agreement established between the Buenavista del Norte City Council, which is currently the concessionaire of the Port Authority, and the Cabildo.
The Teno Lighthouse will receive the essential facilities to illuminate the cultural and social significance of the Teno Rural Park. Plans are in place to install water and electricity supplies throughout the building and to adapt the floor space to accommodate a café or restaurant, in addition to restrooms located below ground level next to a storage area.
Simultaneously, designated parking for authorised vehicles will be created, a turning area constructed, and access refreshed, thereby enhancing public transport and ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors. Efforts to beautify the natural surroundings are also included.
Both the Cabildo and the City Council have synchronised their efforts to ensure that the renovation of the lighthouse and the associated works are executed concurrently, with an anticipated timeframe of 10 months.
During this period, access to Punta de Teno will be restricted to road traffic both day and night, except for authorised vehicles and Titsa public transport during specified times and days.
The former Teno Lighthouse ceased its operations decades ago after the previous lighting system was sold in 1978, leading to the installation of a tower equipped with more modern lighting to aid navigation. The original structure, which was built in 1897, remains in generally sound condition.
